I !!i 






•greatest book 
Ever Written 




. 





class JiSiLoas 

Book->W3 3 . 
Gop^ightN? 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. 



H 






The Greatest Book 
Ever Written 



The New Testament in Its 
Inspired Literary Form 

Authorized Version 



BY 



The Rev. S. TOWNSEND WEAVER 

Author of 
"The University New Testament," Etc. 




The University Literature Extension 
washington, d. c. 






Copyright, 1915 
By S. Townsend Weaver 

All rights reserved 



National Capital Press. Inc. 

Book Manufacturers 

Washington, D. C. 

FEB -9 1915 

©CI.A393589 



CH 



M 



:: 



The Greatest Book 
Ever Written 



to tip 

(JHmtoter of ilje Jttstnrtc (Sfotmbrg Ctpirclj 
^asljmgimt, ^. (£.. 

^SU^nsc CiettiLettBss ^enfrs Qireaittsss 
®o <AU piijo ^trofa Pint 



INTRODUCTORY 



The title to this volume is a personal tribute to the New Testa- 
ment of our Lord Jesus Christ as the greatest of all books, and 
was suggested by the words of a well-known French writer who 
said of Matthew, that it is the most important, and of Luke, 
that it is the most beautiful,- book ever written. 

The twenty-seven inspired books of the New Testament depend 
in some degree for their influence upon the forms in which the 
gospels and epistles were written. It would seem that the literary 
models of some of these books were first created, and the message 
then written into them. The correct exposition of the narratives 
is impossible until the literary forms have been discovered. With 
the disappearance of the original manuscripts of the New Testa- 
ment books were lost the models of some of the books, the sacred 
copyist preserving only the divine text. 

The New Testament authors wrote with great enthusiasm as 
spiritual evangelists, and as ambitious men of letters, possessing 
rare gifts for literary craftsmanship, and valuable materials for 
the creation of original, powerful and beautiful literature. Among 
the first readers of the New Testament there must have been 
men and women of high station, among them Theophilus, probably 
a Roman gentleman of position, wealth and culture, to whom 
Luke dedicated his work. Such persons, it is well understood, 
would profit by the gospel presented in its most attractive literary 
dress. 

The author of Matthew either found at hand or invented the 
model which he employed for the narration of his gospel, and 
Luke utilized it for the purpose of his gospel and history. It is 
a rare literary mechanism. It is a piece of literary invention of 
fine craftsmanship. It is interesting to examine as a whole and 
in its parts. It has never appeared in print before, and it is sure 
to be generally prized by men and women of literary taste for the 
originality and ingenuity it reveals. 

The model of the first gospel may be seen to be a seven-fold 
design, finely proportioned, with prologue and epilogue of unique 
creation. There are summaries following the parts through the 
narratives of Matthew, Luke and Acts. The prologue presents 
Jesus ancestrally as prophet, king and priest (presbyter or elder), 
the three-fold character of the expected Messiah. In the first 
part the child of Mary is set forth with a seven-fold prophetic 
identification as the Messiah for whom the Jews were looking. 

vii 



viii Introductory 



In the second part He appears in full prophetic character, in 
the third part in full priestly character, and in the fourth part in 
full kingly character, as the Messiah. In the last three parts 
He is shown in his ministry and work as prophetically anticipating 
his humiliation and glory at Jerusalem; secondly, as surrendering 
royally to His people; and, finally, as suffering death in priestly 
propitiation for the sins of the world and reappearing to his people 
in glorious triumph over the grave. The power of the epilogue 
is irresistible. 

The author of Matthew may thus be seen working as an artist 
with a great theme, and with great materials, and with great 
gifts for writing the most important book ever written. And 
what is said of Matthew may be said in greater or less degree of 
the books of the entire New Testament. Their supremacy in the 
world of literature because of the wondrous story is acknowledged. 
It has been sought to exemplify herein the fact that they are also 
supreme in the world of letters because of their form. The New 
Testament should contribute more than all other literature of 
the treasures of culture, such as the regeneration that comes 
through association with great ideas, the enrichment that springs 
from their wisdom, and the refinement that breathes through their 
beauty and charm; and all these benefits in addition to the gracious 
redemption of the world. 



S. TOWNSEND WEAVER. 



CONTENTS 



THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW 

PROLOGUE 
The Genealogy of Jesus Christ 3 

PART ONE 

The Private Life of Jesus Christ. 

The Seven-Fold Identification of the Messiah. 
§1. The Nativity. 

i. The Virgin Birth of Jesus 5 

ii. The Gentile Magi at Bethlehem 5 

iii. The Flight Into Egypt 6 

iv. The Holy Family in Galilee 7 

§2. The Manifestation of the Messiah. 

i. The Coming of John the Baptist 7 

ii. The Baptism of Jesus 8 

§3. The Great Temptation of Jesus. 

The Three-Fold Test of Christ 8 

§4. The Settlement of Jesus in Galilee 

The Residence at Capernaum by the Sea . . 9 
The First Summary 

PART TWO 

The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee. 

The Prophetic Character of the Messiah. 
§1. The Call of Jesus to Discipleship. 

The Response of Peter, Andrew, James and John . 11 
§2. The Great Fame of Jesus in Syria. 

The Ministry of Teaching and Healing .... 11 
§3. The Great Sermon on the Mount. 

The Instruction for the Disciples 11 

The Second Summary 

PART THREE 

The Ministry in Galilee Continued. 
The Priestly Character of the Messiah. 
§1. The Healing Ministry of Jesus. 

i. The Cleansing of a Leper 21 

ii. The Healing of a Centurion's Servant .... 21 
iii. The Healing of Peter's Wife's Mother .... 22 

iv. The Healing of the Multitude 22 

ix 



Contents 



§2. The Departure of Jesus into Gadara. 

i. The Would-be Followers of Jesus 22 

ii. The Stilling of a Great Tempest 22 

iii. The Healing of the Gadarene Demoniacs ... 23 
§3. The Return of Jesus into Galilee. 

i. The Man Forgiven and Healed 23 

ii. The Call of Matthew the Publican 23 

iii. The Ruler's Daughter and the Infirm Woman . 24 

iv. The Blind Man and the Demoniac 25 

§4. The Mission of the Twelve to the Jews. 

i. The Great Compassion of Jesus 25 

ii. The Healing Mission of the Twelve 25 

iii. The Organization of Apostles 26 

iv. The Commission of Jesus for the Twelve ... 26 

The Third Summary 

PART FOUR 

The Ministry in Galilee Continued. 
The Kingly Character of the Messiah. 
§1. The Messiahship of Jesus. 

i. The Inquiry of Jesus by John the Baptist. . . 29 

ii. The Condemnation of the Cities 30 

iii. The Gracious Invitation 31 

§2. The Lordship of Jesus. 

i. The Lordship of the Sabbath 31 

ii. The True Lordship of Jesus 32 

iii. The Condemnation of Blasphemy 32 

iv. The True Subjects of the Kingdom ■ . 34 

§3. The Seven Parables of the Kingdom 

i. The Parable of the Sower 35 

ii. The Tares of the Field 36 

iii. The Parable of the Mustard Seed 37 

iv. The Parable of the Leaven 37 

§4. The Seven Parables Concluded. 

i. The Seven-Fold Exposition of the Tares .... 38 

ii. The Hidden Treasure 38 

iii. The Pearl of Great Price 39 

iv. The Parable of the Fishing Net 39 

The Fourth Summary 

PART FIVE 

The Ministry in Galilee Concluded. 
The Prophetic Anticipation of the End. 
§1. The Rejection of Jesus at Nazareth. 

i. The Unbelief of the People 41 

ii. The Fear of Herod the Tetrarch 41 

iii. The Retirement to the Desert 42 

iv. The Appearance of Jesus on the Sea 42 



Contents xi 



§2. The Tradition of the Elders. 

i. The Controversy with the Authorities .... 43 

ii. The Retirement to Tyre and Sidon 44 

iii. The Return to the Sea of Galilee 45 

iv. The Danger of the Jewish Parties 45 

§3. The True Glory of Jesus Christ. 

i. The Great Confession of Peter 46 

ii. The Beginning of the Passion Forecasts .... 47 

iii. The Transfiguration of Jesus 48 

iv. The Healing of an Epileptic Boy 49 

§4. The Close of the Ministry in Galilee. 

i. The Forecast Again of the Passion 49 

ii. The Provision for the Tribute 49 

iii. The Question of Rank in the Kingdom .... 50 

iv. The Instruction in Forgiveness 51 

The Fifth Summary 

PART SIX 

The Ministry of Jesus in Jerusalem. 
The Kingly Surrender to the Holy City. 
§1. The Sojourn Beyond the Jordan. 

i. The Question of Divorce 53 

ii. The Subjects of the Kingdom of Heaven ... 53 

iii. The Question of the Rich Young Man .... 54 
§2. The Approach of Jesus to Jerusalem. 

i. The Forecast Again of the Crucifixion .... 55 

ii. The Mother of Zebedee's Children 56 

iii. The Healing of Two Blind Men 57 

§3. The Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem. 

i. The Reception of Christ 57 

ii. The Cleansing of the Temple 58 

iii. The Cursing of the Fig Tree 58 

iv. The Authority of Christ 58 

§4. The Controversies with the Rulers 

i. The Plot of the Pharisees 61 

ii. The Indictment of the Pharisees 62 

iii. The Forecast of the Fall of the Temple .... 65 

iv. The Great Discourse on Last Things 65 

The Sixth Summary 

PART SEVEN 

The Crucifixion and Resurrection. 
The Priestly Propitiation and Triumph. 
§1. The Approaching Passover Feast. 

i. The Action of the Sanhedrin 71 

ii. The Anointing of Jesus at Bethany 71 

iii. The Conspiracy of Judas Iscariot 71 



xii Contents 



§2. The Observance of the Passover Feast. 

i. The Preparation for the Feast 72 

ii. The Disclosure of the Betrayal 72 

iii. The Institution of the Holy Communion ... 72 

iv. The Forecast of Peter's Denial 73 

§3. The Arrest and Trial of Jesus. 

i. The Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane ... 73 

ii. The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus 74 

iii. The Trial Before the Sanhedrin 74 

iv. The Trial Before the Roman Governor .... 75 

§4. The Crucifixion and Resurrection. 

i. The Mocking of Jesus by the Soldiers .... 77 

ii. The Crucifixion of Jesus at Golgotha ..... 77 

iii. The Burial of Jesus 78 

iv. The Resurrection of Jesus 79 

EPILOGUE 

The Great Commission. 

The Seven-Fold Apostolic Commission 80 

The Closing Summary 



The Gospel According to Mark 

The Gospel of Jesus Christ the Son of God. 
The Beginning of the Gospel. 

The Manifestation of the Messiah 83 

The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee 84 

The Preaching Tour through Galilee 85 

The Criticism of the Jewish Authorities .... 86 

The Fame of Jesus throughout Syria 88 

The Organization of the Apostles 88 

The Scribes from Jerusalem in Galilee 88 

The Departure into Gadara 91 

The Return into Galilee 92 

The Ministry through Galilee 93 

The Retirement of Jesus Across the Lake ... 95 

The Tradition of the Elders of the Jews .... 97 

The Northern Retirement into Phoenicia .... 98 

The Retreat into Decapolis 100 

The Secret Arrival in Galilee 103 

The Journey from Capernaum to Jerusalem . . 104 

The Ministry of Jesus in Jerusalem 107 

The Controversy with the Rulers 108 

The Last Words with the Disciples Ill 

The Crucifixion of Jesus 114 

The Resurrection of Jesus 120 



Contents xiii 



THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO LUKE 

THE PREFACE 

The Manifold Gospel of Jesus Christ. 
The Dedication to Theophilus. 

The Design of the Author of the Gospel .... 125 

PART ONE 

The Private Life of Jesus Christ. 
§1. The Annunciation. 

i. The Promise of God to Zacharias 127 

ii. The Annunciation to Mary 128 

Hi. The Visit of Mary to Elizabeth 130 

§2. The Birth of John the Baptist. 

The Circumcision and Name 131 

§3. The Nativity. 

i. The Birth of Jesus at Bethlehem 132 

ii. The Angel and the Shepherds 133 

iii. The Circumcision and Presentation 134 

iv. The Visit of Jesus to Jerusalem 135 

§4. The Manifestation of Jesus Christ. 

i. The Coming of John the Baptist 136 

ii. The Voice of God from Heaven 138 

iii. The Genealogy of Jesus 138 

iv. The Great Temptation of Jesus 140 

Thw First Summary 

PART TWO 

The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee. 

§1. The Public Appearance of Jesus Christ. 

i. The Announcement at Nazareth 143 

ii. The Ministry of Jesus through Galilee 144 

iii. The Healing of a Paralytic 146 

iv. The Call of Levi the Publican 146 

§2. The Lordship of Jesus. 

The Opposition of the Pharisees 147 

§3. The Organization of Apostles. 

i. The Choice of the Twelve 148 

ii. The Following Multitudes 148 

iii. The Great Sermon in the Plain 148 

The Second Summary 

PART THREE 

The Ministry in Galilee Concluded. 
§1. The Authority of Jesus Christ. 

i. The Healing of the Servant of a Centurion . . . 151 

ii. The Raising of a Widow's Son 151 

iii. The Inquiry of John the Baptist 152 

iv. The Witness of Jesus to John 153 



xiv Contents 



§2. The Recognition of Jesus Christ. 

i. The Anointing in a Pharisee's House 153 

ii. The Preaching Tour of Galilee 154 

iii. The Parable of the Sower 154 

iv. The True Kindred of Jesus 155 

§3. The Great Power of Jesus Christ. 

i. The Stilling of the Storm on the Lake 155 

ii. The Sojourn of Jesus in Gadara 156 

iii. The Return of Jesus into Galilee 157 

iv. The Mission of the Twelve Apostles 158 

§4. The Glory of Jesus Christ. 

i. The Great Confession of Simon Peter 159 

ii. The Transfiguration of Jesus Christ 160 

iii. The Healing of the Demoniac 160 

iv. The Forecast of the Crucifixion 161 

The Third Summary 

PART FOUR 

The Great Journey to Jerusalem. 

§1. The Coming of the Kingdom of God. 

i. The Rejection by the Samaritans 163 

ii. The Would-be Followers of Jesus 163 

iii. The Mission of the Seventy 164 

iv. The Home of Mary and Martha 166 

§2. The Prayer for the Kingdom of God . 

i. The Instruction of the Disciples 166 

ii. The Encouragement to Prayer 167 

iii. The Blasphemy of the Pharisees 168 

iv. The Praise of a Woman 169 

§3. The Judgment of the Kingdom of God. 

i. The Present Evil Generation 169 

ii. The Condemnation of the Pharisees 170 

iii. The Warning against Phariseeism 171 

iv. The Discourse on Worldly-Mindedness 172 

§4. The Nature of the Judgment. 

i. The Call to Repentance 175 

ii. The Parable of the Fig Tree 176 

iii. The Healing of an Infirm Woman 176 

iv. The Extension of the Kingdom 177 

The Fourth Summary 

PART FIVE 

The Journey to Jerusalem Concluded. 
§1. The Glory of the Kingdom of God. 

i. The Question Concerning the Saved 179 

ii. The Threat of Herod the Tetrarch 179 

iii. The Visit with a Chief Pharisee 180 

iv. The Cost of Discipleship 181 



Contents xv 



§2. The Great Rejoicing in Heaven. 

The Lost and Found 182 

§3. The Great Reward of the Kingdom. 

i. The Parable of the Unjust Steward 184 

ii. The Reply to the Pharisees 184 

iii. The Woe of Offences 185 

iv. The Greatness of Faith 186 

§4. The Judgment to Come. 

i. The Cleansing of the Ten Lepers 186 

ii. The Kingdom of God in the Midst 187 

iii. The True Members of the Kingdom 188 

iv. The Approach to Jerusalem 190 

The Fifth Summary 

PART SIX 

The Ministry of Jesus in Jerusalem. 
§1. The Triumphal Entry of Jesus. 

i. The Royal Reception by the City 193 

ii. The Lamentation of Jesus 194 

iii. The Cleansing of the Temple 194 

iv. The Plot to Destroy Jesus 194 

§2. The Controversy with the Rulers. 

i. The Challenge of Authority 195 

ii. The Rejection of Jesus 195 

iii. The Plot to Ensnare Jesus 195 

iv. The Condemnation of the Scribes 197 

§3. The Gospel of Giving. 

The Gift of a Widow into the Treasury .... 197 
§4. The Great Discourse on Last Things. 

i. The Fall of Jerusalem and Return of Jesus . . . 198 

The Sixth Summary 

PART SEVEN 

The Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus. 
§1. The Observance of the Passover. 

i. The Approaching Feast 201 

ii. The Preparation for the Feast 201 

iii. The Observance of the Feast 201 

iv. The Situation after the Feast 202 

§2. The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus. 

i. The Agony in the Garden . 203 

ii. The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus 203 

iii. The Denial of Simon Peter 204 

iv. The Mocking of Jesus 204 



xvi Contents 



§3. The Trial and Crucifixion of Jesus. 

i. The Condemnation of Jesus 204 

ii. The Way to Calvary 206 

iii. The Crucifixion of Jesus 206 

iv. The Burial of Jesus Near the City 208 

§4. The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus. 

i. The Announcement of the Resurrection .... 208 

ii. The Appearance of Jesus at Emmaus 209 

iii. The Appearance of Jesus to the Apostles . . . .210 

iv. The Ascension of Jesus 210 

The Closing Summary 



THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO JOHN 

PROLOGUE 

The Word that was God in the Beginning 213 

PART ONE 
Jesus the Prophet of God. 

§1. The Testimony of John the Baptist .215 

§2. The Marriage at Cana in Galilee 217 

§3. The Cleansing of the Temple 217 

§4. The Interview with Nicodemus 218 

§5. The Witness of John to Jesus 219 

§6. The Ministry in Samaria 220 

§7. The Healing of the Nobleman's Son 222 

PART TWO 
Jesus the King of Israel. 

§1. The Healing of the Man at the Pool 223 

§2. The Feeding of the Five Thousand 225 

§3. The Feast of Tabernacles 228 

§4. The Healing of the Man Born Blind 234 

§5. The Parable of the Good Shepherd 235 

§6. The Raising of Lazarus 237 

§7. The Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem 240 

PART THREE 
Jesus the High Priest of the People. 

§1. The Last Supper with the Apostles : . . 245 

§2. The Promise of the Holy Spirit 246 

§3. The Parable of the Vine 248 

§4. The Prayer of Intercession 252 

§5. The Betrayal and Condemnation 254 

§6. The Crucifixion of Jesus 257 

§7. The Resurrection of Jesus 259 

EPILOGUE 

The Conclusion of the Gospel 263 



Contents xvii 



The Acts of the Apostles 

PART ONE 

The Coming of the Holy Spirit. 
§1. The Introduction. 

i. The Life and Work of Jesus 267 

ii. The Great Commission to the Apostles .... 267 

iii. The Waiting Apostles in Jerusalem 268 

§2. The Organization of Apostles. 

The Choice of Matthias 268 

§3. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit. 

i. The Fulfilment of the Father's Promise 269 

ii. The Impression upon the City 269 

iii. The Address of the Apostle Peter 269 

iv. The Great Awakening in Jerusalem 271 

§4. The New Life of the Disciples. 

The Church after Pentecost 272 

The First Summary 

PART TWO 

The Ministry in Jerusalem. 

§1. The Apostles at the Temple. 

i. The Lame Man at the Beautiful Gate 273 

ii. The Address of Peter to the People 273 

iii. The Apostles before the Sanhedrin ....... 275 

iv. The Return to the Disciples 276 

§2. The Social Life of the Church. 

i. The Unity of the Disciples 277 

ii. The Faithfulness of Barnabas 277 

iii. The Unfaithfulness of Ananias and Sapphira . . 277 
§3. The Influence of the Apostles. 

i. The Popularity of the Twelve 278 

ii. The Arrest of the Twelve Apostles 278 

iii. The Trial before the Sanhedrin 278 

iv. The Acquittal of the Apostles 279 

§4. The Choice of the Seven. 

The Provision for the Benevolence 280 

The Second Summary 

PART THREE 

The Ministry in Palestine. 

§1. The Dispersion from Jerusalem. 

i. The Arrest of Stephen 281 

ii. The Trial of Stephen 281 

iii. The Execution of Stephen 285 

iv. The Great Persecution in Jerusalem 285 






xviii Contents 



§2. The Ministry in Samaria. 

i. The Ministry of Philip the Evangelist 286 

ii. The Baptism of Simon Magus 286 

iii. The Mission of Peter and John 286 

iv. The Blasphemy of Simon Magus 286 

§3. The Conversion of an Ethiopian. 

The Call of the Holy Spirit to Philip 287 

§4. The Conversion of Saul of Tarsus. 

i. The Persecution at Damascus 288 

ii. The Ministry of Ananias to Saul 288 

iii. The Preaching of Christ by Saul 289 

iv. The Plot of the Jews against Saul 289 

The Third Summary 

PART FOUR 

The Gospel for the Gentiles. 

§1. The Tour of Peter through Palestine. 

i. The Ministry at Lydda and Sharon 291 

ii. The Call of Peter to Joppa . 291 

§2. The Gentile Pentecost at Cassarea. 

i. The Vision of Cornelius 292 

ii. The Vision of Peter at Joppa 292 

iii. The Ministry of Peter at Csesarea 293 

iv. The Action of the Church at Jerusalem .... 294 
§3. The Gentile Church at Antioch. 

i. The Founding of the Church 295 

ii. The Mission of Barnabas from Jerusalem . . . 296 

iii. The Coming of Paul to Antioch 296 

iv. The Famine Mission to Jerusalem ....... 296 

§4. The Persecution of Herod Agrippa I. 

i. The Death of the Apostle James 297 

ii. The Assault upon Peter 297 

iii. The Death of the Jailors 298 

iv. The Blasphemy and Death of the King .... 298 

The Fourth Summary 

PART FIVE 

The First Gentile Churches. 

§1. The Ministry of Paul through Cyprus. 

i. The Call of Barnabas and Paul at Antioch ... 299 

ii. The Conversion of the Proconsul 299 

§2. The Ministry of Paul in Galatia. 

i. The Church at Antioch of Pisidia 300 

ii. The Church at Iconium 303 

iii. The Church at Lystra 303 

iv. The Church at Derbe 304 



Contents xix 



§3. The Gentile Council at Jersualem. 

i. The Controversy at Antioch 304 

ii. The Council at Jerusalem 305 

iii. The Action of the Council 306 

iv. The Delivery of the Decrees 307 

§4. The Visit to the Galatian Churches. 

The Second Missionary Journey 307 

The Fifth Summary 

PART SIX 

The Churches in Macedonia, Greece and Asia. 
§1. The Call of Paul into Macedonia. 

The Divine Guidance toward Troas 309 

§2. The Ministry of Paul in Macedonia. 

i. The Church at Philippi 309 

ii. The Conversion of the Jailor 310 

iii. The Church at Thessalonica 311 

iv. The Church at Bercea 312 

§3. The Ministry of Paul in Greece. 

i. The Apostle at Athens 312 

ii. The Church at Corinth 313 

iii. The Apostle before the Proconsul 314 

iv. The Return to Antioch in Syria 314 

§4. The Ministry of Paul in Asia. 

i. The Beginning of the Third Journey 315 

ii. The Ministry of Apollos at Ephesus 315 

iii. The Arrival of Paul at Ephesus 315 

iv. The Evangelization of Asia 316 

The Sixth Summary 

PART SEVEN 

The Ministry of Paul at Rome. 

§1. The Journey via Corinth to Jerusalem. 

i. The Plan of Paul to Visit Rome 317 

ii. The Pagan Riot at Ephesus 317 

iii. The Journey into Greece and Return 318 

iv. The Journey from Miletus to Jerusalem . . . .321 
§2. The Persecution of Paul by the Jews. 

i. The Report of Paul to the Church 322 

ii. The Seizure of Paul in the Temple 322 

iii. The Address from the Castle Steps 323 

iv. The Hearing before the Sanhedrin 325 

§3. The Transfer of Paul to Caesarea. 

i. The Vision of Paul in the Castle 326 

ii. The Transfer to the Roman Governor 326 

iii. The Trial before Governor Felix 328 

iv. The Appeal of Paul to Caesar 330 



xx Contents 



§4. The Transfer of Paul to Rome. 

i. The Voyage via Asia to Crete 334 

ii. The Shipwreck on the Island of Melita .... 334 

iii. The Arrival of Paul at Rome 337 

iv. The Prison Ministry of Paul at Rome 337 

The Closing Summary 



The Epistle to the Romans 

PART ONE 
The Introduction. 

The Gospel of Christ for the Romans 341 

PART TWO 

The Instruction for the Romans. 

I. The Theology of Salvation: Justification by Faith. 

The Preamble 343 

§1. The Revelation of the Wrath of God. 

i. The Condemnation of the Gentiles 343 

ii. The Condemnation of the Jews 344 

iii. The Condemnation of All Men 346 

§2. The Revelation of the Righteousness of God. 

i. The Great Fact of Human Redemption .... 347 

ii. The Covenant with Abraham 347 

iii. The Justification of Man by Faith 349 

iv. The Mediation of Jesus Christ 349 

II. The Theology of the Christian Life: Sanctification 
by the Holy Spirit. 

i. The Christian Life Defined 350 

ii. The Christian Life Analyzed 352 

iii. The Christian Life Realized 352 

iv. The Christian Life Glorified 353 

III. The Theology of History: The Purpose of God 
through Israel. 

i. The Introduction 355 

ii. The Past and the Promise of God 355 

iii. The Present and the Place of Israel 357 

iv. The Future and the Rejection of Israel . . . .358 

The Seven-Fold Doxology 

PART THREE 

The^ Exhortation for the Romans. 
§1. The Christian in Society. 

i. The Daily Christian Life 361 

ii. The Christian in the State 363 

iii. The Summary 363 



Contents xxi 



§2. The Christian in the Church. 

i. The Relation of the Strong and Weak .... 364 
ii. The Relation of Jew and Gentile 365 

The Benediction 

PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 
The Apostle and the Romans. 

i. The Ministry of Paul 367 

ii. The Salutations and Benediction 368 



The First Epistle to the Corinthians 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Commendtion of the Corinthians 373 

PART TWO 

The Instruction Concerning Reports. 

§1. The Report of Divisions in the Church. 

i. The Party Spirit and the Gospel 375 

ii. The Party Spirit and the Church 377 

iii. The Party Spirit and the Minister 378 

§2. The Report of Immorality in the Church. 

i. The Lust in the Congregation 380 

ii. The Litigation of the Corinthians 381 

iii. The Higher Spiritual Law 381 

PART THREE 

The Instruction in Reply to Inquiries. 

§1. The Inquiry Concerning Marriage. 

i. The Importance of Marriage 383 

ii. The Gospel of Marriage 383 

iii. The Care of Virgins 384 

§2. The Inquiry Concerning Sacrificial Meats. 

i. The Apostle's Instruction 385 

ii. The Apostle's Exhortation 388 

§3. The Inquiry Concerning Public Worship. 

i. The Place of Men and Women in the Church . . 389 

ii. The Observance of the Communion 390 

iii. The Gifts of the Holy Spirit 391 

iv. The Glory of All Gifts 392 

v. The Ministry of Prophecy 394 

§4. The Inquiry Concerning the Resurrection. 

i. The Doctrine of the Resurrection 396 

ii. The Nature of the Resurrection 397 



xxii Contents 



PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Apostle's Plans, Exhortations and Salutations. 

i. The Collection for the Saints 399 

ii. The Plan of Paul to Visit Corinth 399 

iii. The Plans of Timothy and Apollos 399 

iv. The Closing Exhortation 400 

v. The Salutation and Benediction 400 



The Second Epistle to the Corinthians 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Comfort of the Gospel 403 

PART TWO 

The Instruction Concerning the Church. 
§1. The Apostle and the Corinthians. 

The Relations of Paul with the Church .... 405 
§2. The Apostleship of Paul. 

i. The Office of an Apostle 406 

ii. The Sufferings of an Apostle 408 

iii. The Life of an Apostle 409 

§3. The Appeal to the Corinthians. 

The Plea of a Great Heart 410 

§4. The Completion of the Reconciliation. 

The Mission of Titus to Corinth 411 

PART THREE 

The Instruction Concerning the Collection. 
The Collection for the Poor at Jerusalem. 

The Gospel of Giving and Receiving 413 

PART FOUR 

The Instruction Concerning the Ministry of Paul. 
The Great Apology of Paul. 

The Apostle's Defence of His Ministry 416 

PART FIVE 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Warnings, Salutations and Benediction. 

i. The Warnings of the Apostle 421 

ii. The Salutations and Benediction 422 



Contents xxiii 



The Epistle to the Galatians 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Divine Apostleship of Paul 425 

PART TWO 

The Instruction for the Galatians. 

§1. The Authority of Paul as an Apostle. 

i. The Divine Call to the Ministry 427 

ii. The Agreement with the Apostles -. . 428 

§2. The Doctrine of Salvation by Faith. 

The Gospel in the Covenant and Law 429 

§3. The Decline of the Galatian Churches. 

The Influence of Judaizing Missionaries . . . .431 

PART THREE 

The Exhortation for the Galatians. 

The Freedom and Responsibility of the Gospel. 

i. The Liberty that is in Christ 433 

ii. The Duties of the Church 434 

PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Glory of Paul in the Cross 435 



THE EPISTLE TO THE EPHESIANS 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Great Saviour of the World 439 

PART TWO 

The Instruction for the Ephesians. 
The Salvation of the Gentiles. 

i. The Doctrine of Salvation by Faith 441 

ii. The Doctrine of Sanctification by the Spirit . . 442 

PART THREE 

The Exhortation for the Ephesians. 
The Gracious Appeal of Paul. 

i. The Appeal to the Body of Believers 445 

ii. The Appeal to the Various Classes 447 

iii. The Appeal to the Church as an Army 448 



xxiv Contents 



PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Situation of Paul at Rome 451 



The Epistle to the Philippians 

PART ONE * 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Great Love of Paul for the Philippians. . .455 

PART TWO 

The Instruction for the Philippians. 
The Humble Mind of Christ. 

i. The Ministry of Paul in Rome 457 

ii. The Missionary Plans for Philippi 459 

PART THREE 

The Exhortation for the Philippians. 
The Humble Mind of the Apostle. 

i. The Loss and Gain in Christ 461 

ii. The Life and Work of the Church 462 

PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Personal Word of Paul 463 



THE EPISTLE TO THE COLOSSIANS 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Report of Epaphras 467 

PART TWO 

The Instruction for the Colossi ans. 
The Doctrine of Christ. 

i. The Pre-eminence of Jesus Christ 469 

ii. The Ministry of Paul 469 

PART THREE 

The Exhortation for the Colossians. 
The Life in Christ. 

i. The Doctrinal Circumspection 471 

ii. The Moral Circumspection 472 

iii. The Social Circumspection 473 

iv. The Concluding Exhortation 473 



Contents xxv 



PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Situation of Paul at Rome 475 



THE FIRST EPISTLE TO THE THESSALONIANS 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Faith of the Thessalonians 479 

PART TWO 

The Instruction for the Thessalonians. 

§1. The Anxiety of Paul for the Thessalonians. 

i. The Personal Relations with the Church . . . .481 

ii. The Social Life of the Church 483 

§2. The Second Coming of Jesus Christ. 

The Manner and Time of Jesus' Return . . . . 483 

PART THREE 

The Exhortation for the Thessalonians. 
The Duties of the Thessalonians. 

The Care of the Church 485 

PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Apostle's Closing Word 487 



The Second Epistle to the Thessalonians 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Apostle and the Thessalonians 491 

PART TWO 

The Instruction for the Thessalonians. 
The Second Coming of Jesus Christ. 

The Conditions of Jesus' Return ....... 493 

PART THREE 

The Exhortation for the Thessalonians. 
The Social Life of the Church. 

The Circumspection Concerning Evil-Doers . . 495 



xxvi Contents 



PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 
The Peace of God. 

The Salutation and Benediction 497 



The First Epistle to Timothy 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 
The Mission of Timothy at Ephesus. 

The Salutation and Thanksgiving 501 

PART TWO 

The Instruction and Exhortation for Timothy. 
§1. The Message of Paul for the Church. 

i. The Apostle's Charge 503 

ii. The Directions for the Congregation 503 

§2. The Message of Paul for Timothy. 

i. The Church and the Times 505 

ii. The Duty of Timothy as a Minister 505 

iii. The Duty of Timothy Toward Riches 505 

PART THREE 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 
The Duty of the Hour. 

The Closing Exhortation and Benediction . . . 509 



The Second Epistle to Timothy 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 
The Desire of Paul for Timothy. 

The Salutation and Thanksgiving 513 

PART TWO 

The Ehortation for Timothy. 

The Ministry of Timothy at Ephesus. 

i. The Duty of Timothy in Society 515 

ii. The Duty of Timothy in the Church 516 

PART THREE 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 
The Last Words of Paul. 

The Personal Messages of Paul 519 



Contents xxvii 



The Epistle to Titus 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Manifestation of the Word 523 

PART TWO 

The Instruction For Titus. 
The Ministry in Crete. 

i. The Appointment of Ministers in Crete . . . .525 
ii. The Character of Believers 525 

PART THREE 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Call of Titus to Nicopolis 527 



The Epistle to Philemon 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Faith and Love of Philemon 531 

PART TWO 

The Plea for Onesimus. 
The Appeal to Philemon. 

The Apostle's Guarantee for Onesimus 533 

PART THREE 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Confidence of Paul in Philemon 535 



The Epistle to the Hebrews 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 
The Revelation of the Son of God. 

i. The Greatness of the Son 539 

ii. The Pre-eminence of the Son 539 

PART TWO 

The Instruction for the Hebrews. 
The New Priesthood and Sanctuary. 

i. The High Priesthood of Jesus 543 

ii. The Nature of Jesus' High Priesthood 545 

iii. The High Priesthood of Melchizedek 547 

iv. The Better Covenant and Sanctuary 549 



xxviii Contents 



PART THREE 

The Exhortation for the Hebrews. 
The Great Duty of the Hour. 

i. The Perils of Apostasy from the Faith 555 

ii. The Manifold Triumphs of Faith 556 

iii. The Great Importance of Faithfulness 560 

iv. The Glory of the New Dispensation 561 

PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Admonitions, Salutations and Benediction. 

i. The Seven-Fold Concluding Admonition .... 563 
ii. The Benediction and Salutation 564 



THE EPISTLE OF JAMES 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 
The Greeting of James. 

The Scattered Disciples in Palestine 567 

PART TWO 

The Instruction of James. 

The Meaning of the Present Life. 

i. The Law of Temptation 569 

ii. The Law of the Word of God 570 

iii. The Law of Love 570 

iv. The Law of Faith 571 

v. The Law of Humility 571 

vi. The Law of Wisdom 572 

vii. The Law of Salvation 573 

PART THREE 

The Exhortation of James. 
The Judgment to Come. 

The Wisdom of the Religious Life 575 

PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 
The Duty Toward the Erring. 

The Salvation from Death 577 



Contents xxix 



The First Epistle of Peter 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 

The Jewish Believers in Asia Minor 581 

PART TWO 

The Instruction of Peter. 

The Greatness of Christianity. 

i. The Greatness of the Christian Salvation. . . . 583 

ii. The Greatness of the Christian Life 583 

iii. The Greatness of the Christian Church . . . .584 

PART THREE 

The Exhortation of Peter. 

The Church of Christ in the World. 

i. The Brotherhood of Believers 587 

ii. The Christian Character and Conduct 588 

iii. The Martyrdom for the Faith 590 

iv. The Duties of the Church 590 

PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Apostle's Closing Word 593 



The Second Epistle of Peter 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 
The Fellow-Believers in Christ. 

The Entrance into the Kingdom of Christ . . . 597 

PART TWO 

The Instruction of Peter. 

The Eye- Witnesses to His Majesty. 

The Ministry of the Church 599 

PART THREE 

The Exhortation of Peter. 

The True Time of Last Things. 

The Second Coming of Jesus Christ 603 

PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Preparation for the Second Coming. 

The Apostle's Closing Exhortation 605 



xxx Contents 

The First Epistle of John 

prologue 

The Manifestation of the Spiritual. 
The Life of Christ. 

The Testimony of Eye- Witnesses 609 

PART ONE 

The Ethical and the Spiritual. 
The Reality of the Christian Life. 

The Salvation from Sin Unto Righteousness . .611 

PART TWO 

The Relation of the Ethical and the Spiritual. 
The Sign of the Christian Life. 

The Wonderful Love of God 615 

PART THREE 

The Oneness of the Ethical and the Spiritual. 
The Supremacy of the Christian Life. 

The Complete Assurance of Love 617 

EPILOGUE 

The Supremacy of the Spiritual. 
The Christian Triumph. 

The Life in Jesus Christ 619 



THE SECOND EPISTLE OF JOHN 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 
The Elect Lady in Christ. 

The Truth in Christ 623 

PART TWO 

The Apostle's Message. 
The Doctrine of Christ. 

The True and the False in Christ 625 

PART THREE 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 
The Messages of John. 

The Apostle's Plans 627 



Contents xxxi 

The Third Epistle of John 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 
The Walk in the Truth. 

The Salutation and Thanksgiving 631 

PART TWO 

The Instruction and Exhortation of John. 
The Commendations and Warnings. 

i. The Commendation of Gaius 633 

ii. The Warning Against Diotrephes 633 

PART THREE 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 

The Messages of John 635 



The Epistle of Jude 

PART ONE 

The Introduction to the Epistle. 
The Greeting of Jude. 

The Called, Beloved and Kept 639 

PART TWO 

The Instruction of Jude. 

The Enemies of the Faith of Christ. 

The Defense of the True Faith 641 

PART THREE 

The Exhortation of Jude. 
The Words of the Apostles. 

The Importance of Circumspection 643 

PART FOUR 

The Conclusion of the Epistle. 
The Only Wise God our Saviour. 

The Great Intercessor 645 



xxxii Contents 



The Revelation of John 

prologue 

The Messages for the Seven Churches. 
§1. The Introduction. 

The Superscription and Salutation 649 

§2. The Great Revelation to John. 

The Vision of the Son of Man 650 

§3. The Messages for the Churches. 

i. The Message for the Church in Ephesus . . . .651 
ii. The Message for the Church in Smyrna . . . .651 
iii. The Message for the Church in Pergamos . . .652 
iv. The Message for the Church in Thyatira . . . .652 

v. The Message for the Church in Sardis 653 

vi. The Message for the Church in Philadelphia . . 653 
vii. The Message for the Church in Laodicea .... 654 

PART ONE 

The Heavenly Vision op John. 

The Lamb of God and the Sealed Book. 

i. The Vision of the Throne 655 

ii. The Vision of the Sealed Book 656 

iii. The Vision of the Lamb of God 656 

iv. The Vision of the Multitude 657 

PART TWO 

The Vision of the Powers of Judgment. 
The Opening of the Sealed Book. 

i. The Seal of Conquest 659 

ii. The Seal of War 659 

iii. The Seal of Famine 659 

iv. The Seal of Death 659 

v. The Seal of Judgment 660 

vi. The Seal of Wrath _ 660 

vii. The Seal of Silence 661 

PART THREE 

The Vision of the Judgment of God. 
The Vision of the Seven Trumpets. 

i. The Judgment on the Earth 663 

ii. The Judgment on the Sea 663 

iii. The Judgment on the Rivers and Fountains . . 663 

iv. The Judgment on the Sun and Stars 663 

v. The Judgment from Beneath 664 

vi. The Judgment from Babylon 664 

vii. The Kingdom of Our Lord 667 



Contents xxxiii 



PART FOUR 

The Vision op the Kingdom of Our Lord. 
The Triumph over the Dragon. 

i. The Vision of the Woman and the Dragon . . 669 

ii. The Victory over the Dragon 669 

iii. The Persecution of the Dragon 670 

iv. The Dragon and the Beast 670 

v. The Prophet of the Beast 671 

vi. The Triumph of the Lamb 671 

vii. The Judgment of the Lamb 673 

PART FIVE 

The Vision of the Wrath of God. 

Prologue. The Vision of the Vials 675 

i. The Vision of the First Vial 675 

ii. The Vision of the Second Vial 675 

iii. The Vision or the Third Vial 675 

iv. The Vision of the Fourth Vial 676 

v. The Vision of the Fifth Vial 676 

vi. The Vision of the Sixth Vial 676 

vii. The Vision of the Seventh Vial 677 

Epilogue. The Fall of Babylon the Great 677 

PART SIX 

The Vision of the Word of God. 

The Lord our God, the Almighty, Reigneth. 

i. The Raiment of the Word of God 683 

ii. The Call of the Birds 684 

iii. The Capture of the Beast 684 

iv. The Binding of Satan 684 

v. The First Resurrection 685 

vi. The War of the Nations 685 

vii. The Last Judgment 685 

PART SEVEN 

The Vision of the Holy City. 
The New Heaven and Earth. 

i. The New Creation 687 

ii. The Vision of the New Jerusalem 688 

EPILOGUE 

The Coming of the Lord Jesus. 
The Conclusion of the Revelation. 

The Last Words of the Vision 691 

* * * 

* * 

* 



The Gospel 
According to Matthew 



The Genealogy of Jesus Christ 1 



THE HEBREW LINEAGE 

THE DESCENT OF JESUS FROM ABRAHAM 

The Three-Fold Messianic Ancestry 

The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, 

the son of Abraham. 

* 

THE DESCENT FROM ABRAHAM TO DAVID 

The Prophetic Ancestry of Jesus 

2 Abraham begat Isaac; 
And Isaac begat Jacob; 

And Jacob begat Judah and his brethren; 

3 And Judah begat Perez and Zerah of Tamar; 
And Pharez begat Esrom; 

And Esrom begat Aram; 

4 And Aram begat Aminadab; 
And Aminadab begat Nahshon; 
And Nahshon begat Salmon; 

5 And Salmon begat Boaz of Rahab; 
And Boaz begat Obed of Ruth; 
And Obed begat Jesse; 

6 And Jesse begat David the king. 

* * 

THE DESCENT FROM DAVID TO THE CAPTIVITY 

The Kingly Ancestry of Jesus 

And David the king begat Solomon of her that 
had been the wife of Uriah; 

7 And Solomon begat Rehoboam; 
And Rehoboam begat Abijah; 
And Abijah begat Asa; 

8 And Asa begat Jehoshaphat; 
And Jehoshaphat begat Joram; 
And Joram begat Uzziah; 



1 The Gospel according to Matthew was written, very probably, about 
the time of the Fall of Jerusalem — A. D. 70 — some think before, some after, 
and addressed to Jewish believers; a brilliant presentation of the Messiahship 
and Messianic Kingdom of Jesus as Prophet, Priest and King, and said to 
be "the most important book ever written." 

Chapter 1:1-8 



4 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

9 And Uzziah begat Jotham; 
And Jotham begat Ahaz; 
And Ahaz begat Hezekiah; 

10 And Hezekiah begat Manasseh; 
And Manasseh begat Amon; 
And Amon begat Josiah; 

11 And Josiah begat Jechoniah and his brethren; 
about the time they were carried away to Babylon. 

* * * 
THE DESCENT FROM THE CAPTIVITY TO CHRIST 
The Priestly Ancestry of Jesus 

12 And after they were brought to Babylon, 
Jechoniah begat Salathiel; 

And Salathiel begat Zerubbabel; 

13 And Zerubbabel begat Abiud; 
And Abiud begat Eliakim; 
And Eliakim begat Azor; 

14 And Azor begat Sadoc; 
And Sadoc begat Achim; 
And Achim begat Eliud; 

15 And Eliud begat Eleazar; 
And Eleazar begat Matthan; 
And Matthan begat Jacob; 

% 16 And Jacob begat Joseph, the husband of Mary, 
of whom was born Jesus, who was called Christ. 

* 

17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen 
generations; and from David until the carrying away into Baby- 
lon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into 
Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations. 



rt ©n? 
ie Private Life of Jesus Christ 



§1. THE NATIVITY 

I. THE VIRGIN BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST 

The First Fulfilment of Prophecy 

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as 
his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came 
together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. 19 Then 
Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her 
a public example, was minded to put her away privily. 20 But 
while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord 
appeared unto him in a dream, saying, " Joseph, thou son of 
David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which 
is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 And she shall bring 
forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save 
his people from their sins." 22 Now all this was done, that it 
might be fulfilled that was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying : 

* * * 

23 "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, 
And shall bring forth a son, 
And they shall call his name IMMANUEL; " 2 
* 

which, being interpreted is, God with us. 24 Then Joseph being 
raised from his sleep, did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, 
and took unto him his wife: 25 and knew her not till she had 
brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus. 



II. THE GENTILE MAGI AT BETHLEHEM 
The Second Fulfilment of Prophecy 

2:1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the 
days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the 
east to Jerusalem, 2 saying, "Where is he that is born king of the 
Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to wor- 

1 The seven-fold prophetic identification of Jesus as the promised Messiah. 
s Isa. 7:14. 

5 Chapter 1:18-2:2 



6 7 he Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

ship him." 3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was 

troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had 

gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, 

he demanded of tfiem where Christ should be born. 5 And they 

said unto him, "In Bethlehem of Judaea. " For thus it is written 

through the prophet : 

* * * 

6 "And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, 
Art not the least among the princes of Judah : 
For out of thee shall come a Governor, 
That shall rule my people Israel. "* 
* 

7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired 
of them diligently what time the star appeared. 8 And he sent 
them to Bethlehem, and said, "Go and search diligently for the 
young child; and when you have found him, bring me word again, 
that I may come and worship him also." 9 When they had heard 
the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the 
east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the 
young child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with 
exceeding great joy. 1 1 And when they were come into the house, 
they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, 
and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, 
they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. 
12 And being warned of God in a dream that they should not 
return to Herod, they departed into their own country another 
way. 

m. THE FLIGHT FROM HEROD INTO EGYPT 

a. The Third Fulfilment of Prophecy 

13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the 
Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Arise and take the 
young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there 
until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to 
destroy him." 14 When he arose, he took the young child and 
his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: 15 and was there 
until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was 
spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, "Out of Egypt have 
I called my son." 2 

b. The Fourth Fulfilment of Prophecy 

16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked by the wise 
men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children 
that were in Bethlehem, and in all the borders thereof, from two 

iMic. 5:2. 2 Hos. 11:1. 

Chapter 2:3-16 



2:17 The Gospel According to Matthew 7 

years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently 
enquired of the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled that which was 
spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying : 

* * * 

18 "In Ramah was there a voice heard, 

Lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, 
Rachel weeping for her children, 
And would not be comforted, 
Because they are not." 1 



IV. THE HOME OF THE HOLY FAMILY IN GALILEE 
The Fifth Fulfilment of Prophecy 

19 But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord 
appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20 saying, "Arise, and 
take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of 
Israel: for they are dead that sought the young child's life." 21 
And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came 
into the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus 
did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid 
to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, 
he turned aside into the parts of Galilee: 23 and he came and 
dwelt in a city called Nazareth : that it might be fulfilled that was 
spoken by the prophets, "He shall be called a Nazarene." 8 



§2. THE MANIFESTATION OF THE MESSIAH 

I. THE COMING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST 

The Sixth Fulfilment of Prophecy 

3:1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the 

wilderness of Judaea, 2 and saying, "Repent ye: for the kingdom 

of heaven is at hand." 3 For this is he that was spoken of by the 

prophet Isaiah, saying: 

* * * 

"The voice of one crying in the wilderness, 
Prepare ye the way of the Lord, 
Make his paths straight." 3 
* 

4 And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a 
leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild 
honey. 5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and 
all the region round about Jordan, 6 and were baptized of him in 
Jordan, confessing their sins. 7 But when he saw many of the 

1 Jer. 31:15. 2 Isa. 11:1. 3 Isa. 40:3. 

Chapter 2:17-3:7 



8 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, 
"O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the 
wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repen- 
tance: 9 and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abra- 
ham as our father: for I say unto you that God is able of these 
stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 10 And now also the 
axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree that 
bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the 
fire. 11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but 
he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not 
worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Spirit, and 
with fire: 12 whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly 
purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will 
burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." 



II. THE BAPTISM OF JESUS BY JOHN 
The Three Persons of the Trinity 

13 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to the Jordan unto John, to 
be baptized of him. 14 But John forbade him, saying, "I have 
need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?" 15 And 
Jesus answering said unto him, "Suffer it to be so now: for thus it 
becometh us to fulfil all righteousness." Then he suffered him. 
16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out 
of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he 
saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon 
him: 17 and lo a voice from heaven, saying, "This is my beloved 
Son, in whom I am well pleased." 



§3. THE GREAT TEMPTATION OF JESUS 

THE THREE-FOLD TEST OF CHRIST 

The Ministry of Angels to Jesus 

4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to 
be tempted of the devil. 



a The Temptation of Jesus as Prophet 

2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was 
afterward hungry. 3 And when the tempter came to him, he 
said, "If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be 
made bread." 4 But he answered and said, "It is written, 'Man 
shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth 
out of the mouth of God.' "* 



1 Deut. 8:3. 

Chapter 3:8-4:4 



4:5 The Gospel According to Matthew 9 

b The Temptation of Jesus as High Priest 

5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth 
him on a pinnacle of the temple, 6 and saith unto him, " If thou 
be the Son of God, cast thyself down : for it is written, 



'He shall give his angels charge concerning thee, 
And in their hands shall they bear thee up, 
Lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.' 



7 Jesus saith unto him, "It is written, 'Thou shalt not tempt the 
Lord thy God.'" 2 



c The Temptation of Jesus as King 

8 Again the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high moun- 
tain, and showeth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the 
glory of them; 9 and saith unto him, "All these things will I 
give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me." 10 Then 
saith Jesus unto him, "Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, 
'Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou 



11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and 
ministered unto him. 



§4. THE SETTLEMENT OF JESUS IN GALILEE 

THE RESIDENCE AT CAPERNAUM BY THE SEA 

The Seventh Fulfilment of Prophecy 

12 Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, 
he departed into Galilee: 13 and leaving Nazareth, he came and 
dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the seacoast, in the borders 
of Zebulun and Naphtali: 14 that it might be fulfilled that was 
spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: 



15 "The land of Zebulun, and the land of Naphtali, 
By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, 
Galilee of the Gentiles ; 



1 Ps. 91:llf. 2 Deut. 6:16. 3 Deut. 6:13. 

Chapter 4:5-15 



10 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

16 The people that sat in darkness 
Saw great light ; 
And to them that sat in the region and 

shadow of death 
Light is sprung up." 



She fffrst Summary 

17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, "Repent: 
for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." 



Part &too 
The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee ! 



§1. THE CALL OF JESUS TO DISCIPLESHIP 

THE RESPONSE OF PETER, ANDREW, JAMES AND JOHN 
The Following Galilaean Fishers of Men 

And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, 
Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into 
the sea: for they were fishers. 19 And he saith unto them, " Fol- 
low me, and I will make you fishers of men." 20 And they 
straightway left their nets, and followed him. 21 And going on 
from thence he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, 
and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending 
their nets; and he called them. 22 And they immediately left the 
ship and their father, and followed him. 



§2. THE GREAT FAME OF JESUS IN SYRIA 

THE MINISTRY OF TEACHING AND HEALING 

The Following Multitudes 

23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their syna- 
gogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all 
manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. 
24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought 
unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and 
torments, and those that were possessed with devils, and those 
that were epileptic, and those that had the palsy; and he healed 
them. 25 And there followed him great multitudes of people 
from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from 
Judaea, and from beyond the Jordan. 



§3. THE GREAT SERMON ON THE MOUNT 

THE INSTRUCTION FOR THE DISCIPLES 
The First Seven-Fold Discourse 

5:1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: 



1 The ministry of Jesus Christ as prophet. 

11 Chapter 4:18-5:1 



12 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: 2 and he 
opened his mouth, and taught them, saying: 



i. The Seven-Fold Beatitude 

Blessed are the poor in spirit : 

For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 



4 Blessed are they that mourn: 
For they shall be comforted. 

* 

5 Blessed are the meek : 

For they shall inherit the earth. 

6 Blessed are they that do hunger and 

thirst after righteousness : 
For they shall be filled. 
* 

7 Blessed are the merciful : 
For they shall obtain mercy. 

8 Blessed are the pure in heart : 
For they shall see God. 

* 

9 Blessed are the peacemakers : 

For they shall be called the children of 
God. * 

10 Blessed are they that are persecuted for 

righteousness' sake: 
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 
* * * 

11 Blessed are you, when men shall revile you, 
and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil 
against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and 
be exceeding glad : for great is your reward in heaven : 
for so persecuted they the prophets that were before 
you. 

ii. The Salt of the Earth 

13 You are the salt of the earth: but if the salt 
have lost its savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it 
is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, 
and to be trodden under foot of men. 

Chapter 5:2-13 



5:14 The Gospel According to Matthew 13 

iii. The Light of the World 

14 You are the light of the world: A city that is 
set on a hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men 
light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a 
candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in 
the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, 
that they may see your good works, and glorify your 
Father who is in heaven. 



iv. The Fulfilment of the Law and Prophets 

17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, 
or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to 
fulfil. * * * 

18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth 
pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from 
the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever shall break 
one of these least commandments, and shall teach 
men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom 
of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, 
the same shall be called great in the kingdom of 
heaven. * 

20 For I say unto you, that except your righteous- 
ness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and 
Pharisees, you shall in no case enter into the king- 
dom of heaven. * * 

21 You have heard that it was said by them of 
old time, 'Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall 
kill shall be in danger of the judgment : ' * 22 but I 
say unto you, that whosoever is angry with his 
brother without a cause shall be in danger of the 
judgment; and whosoever shall say to his brother, 
Raca! shall be in danger of the council; but whoso- 
ever shall say, Thou fool! shall be in danger of hell 
fire. 23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, 
and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught 
against thee, 24 leave there thy gift before the altar, 
and go thy way ; first be reconciled to thy brother, and 
then come and offer thy gift. 25 Agree with thine 
adversary quickly, while thou art in the way with 
him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to 
the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, 
and thou be cast into prison. 26 Verily I say unto 



1 Ex. 20:13. 

Chapter 5:14-26 



14 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

you, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till 
thou hast paid the uttermost farthing. 
* * * 

27 You have heard that it was said by them of 
old time, ' Thou shalt not commit adultery : ' l 28 but 
I say unto you, that whosoever looketh on a woman 
to lust after her hath committed adultery with her 
already in his heart. 29 And if thy right hand of- 
fend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee; for it is 
profitable for thee that one of thy members should 
perish, and not that thy whole body shall be cast into 
hell. 30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off 
and cast it from thee; for it is profitable for thee 
that one of thy members should perish, and not 
that thy whole body shall be cast into hell. 

31 It hath been said, 'Whosoever shall put away 
his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement :' 2 
32 but I say unto you, that whosoever shall put away ' 
his wife, save for the cause of fornication, causeth 
her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry 
her that is divorced committeth adultery. 

33 Again, you have heard that it hath been said 
by them of old time, ' Thou shalt not forswear thy- 
self, but shall perform unto the Lord thine oaths :' 8 
34 but I say unto you, Swear not at all ; neither by 
heaven, for it is God's throne; 35 nor by the earth, 
for it is his footstool; neither by Jerusalem, for 
it is the city of the great king. 36 Neither shall 
thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make 
one hair white or black. 37 But let your commun- 
ications be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay; for whatsoever is 
more than these cometh of evil. 

38 You have heard that it hath been said, 'An 
eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:' 4 39 but I 
say unto you, That you resist not evil; but who- 
soever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn 
to him the other also. 40 And if any man will sue 
thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him 
have thy clokealso. 41 And whosoever shall compel 
thee to go a mile, go with him twain. 42 Give to 



*Ex. 20:14. 2 Deut. 24:1 f. 3 Deut. 23:21. 4 Lev. 24:19 f. 

Chapter 5:27-42 



5:43 The Gospel According to Matthew 15 

him that asketh thee, and from him that would 
borrow of thee, turn thou not away. 

43 You have heard that it hath been said, ' Thou 
shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy:' l 44 
but I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them 
that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and 
pray for them that despitefully use you, and per- 
secute you ; 45 that you may be the children of your 
Father who is in heaven; for he maketh his sun to 
rise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on 
the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love 
them that love you, what reward have you? do not 
even the publicans the same? 47 And if you salute 
your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do 
not even the publicans so? 48 Be ye therefore per- 
fect, even as your Father who is in heaven is perfect. 



v. The Doing of Righteousness 

6 : 1 Take heed that you do not your righteous- 
ness before men to be seen of them; otherwise you 
have no reward of your Father who is in heaven. 

♦ 

2 Wherefore when thou doest thine alms, do not 
sound a trumpet before thee as the hypocrites do in 
the synagogues and in the streets, that they may 
have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, they have 
their reward. 3 But when thou doest alms, let not 
thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth; 
4 that thine alms may be in secret ; and thy Father 
who seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 

* * 

5 And when thou pray est, thou shalt not be as 
the hypocrites are; for they love to pray standing in 
the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that 
they may be seen of men . Verily I say unto you, They 
have their reward. 6 But thou, when thou prayest, 
enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy 
door, pray to thy Father who is in secret; and thy 
Father who seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 
7 But when you pray, use not vain repetitions, as 
the heathen do: for they think that they shall be 
heard for their much speaking. 8 Be not ye therefore 



*Lev. 19:18. 

Chapter 5:43-6:8 



16 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

like unto them : for your Father knoweth what things 
you have need of before you ask him. 9 After this 
manner therefore pray ye: 1 
* * * 

Our Father who art in heaven, 
Hallowed be thy name. 

10 Thy kingdom come. 

* 

Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven. 

11 Give us this day our daily bread. 

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our 
debtors. * 

13 And lead us not into temptation, 

But deliver us from evil: 
* 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and 
the glory, for ever. Amen. 

>H 4= H* 

14 For if you forgive men their trespasses, your 
heavenly Father will also forgive you; 15 but if you 
forgive not men their trepasses, neither will your 
Father forgive your trepasses. 

16 Moreover when you fast, be not as the hypo- 
crites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure 
their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. 
Verily I say unto you, they have their reward. 17 
But thou when thou fastest, anoint thy head, and 
wash thy face; 18 that thou appear not unto men 
to fast, but unto thy Father who is in secret; and 
thy Father, who seeth in secret, shall reward 
thee openly. 

vi. The Sayings Against Worldly-Mindedness 

19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon 
earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where 



1 The seven-fold prayer begins with an invocation; contains seven peti- 
tions, and closes with a doxology. 

Chapter 6:9-19 



6:20 The Gospel According to Matthew 17 

thieves break through and steal; 20 but lay up for 
yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth 
nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break 

through nor steal. 

* 

2 1 For where your treasure is, there will your heart 
be also. * * 

22 The light of the body is the eye; if therefore 
thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of 
light. 23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body 
shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light 
that is in thee be darkness, how great is that dark- 
ness! * * * 

24 No man can serve two masters; for either he 
will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will 
hold to the one, and despise the other. You cannot 
serve God and mammon. 



25 Therefore I say unto you, take no thought for 
your life, what you shall eat, or what you shall 
drink; nor yet for your body, what you shall put on. 
Is not the life more than meat, and the body than 
raiment ? 

% ^c # sj: H< 

26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, 
neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet 
your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are you not 
much better than they? 

## ** #* 

27 Which of you by taking thought can add one 
cubit unto his stature? 

28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Con- 
sider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil 
not, neither do they spin; 29 and yet I say unto you 
that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed 
like one of these. 30 Wherefore, if God so clothed 
the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow 
is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe 
you, O ye of little faith? 

* 

31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall 
we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal 
shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things 

Chapter 6:20-32 



18 m Ij77ig Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

do the Gentiles seek;) for your heavenly Father 
knoweth that you have need of all these things. 33 
But seek ye first the kingdom of heaven, and his 
righteousness; and all these things shall be added 
unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the 
morrow; for the morrow shall take thought for the 
things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil 
thereof. 

vii. The Exhortation Against Criticism 

7:1 Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For 
with what judgment you judge, you shall be judged; 
and with what measure you mete, it shall be meas- 
ured to you again. * 

3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy 
brother's eye, and considerest not the beam that is 
in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy 
brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; 
and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou 
hypocrite; first cast out the beam out of thine own 
eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the 
mote out of thy brother's eye. 

* * 

6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, 
neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they 
trample them under their feet, and turn and rend 
you. * * * 

7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and you 
shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 
8 for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that 
seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall 
be opened. ** ** 

9 Or what man is there of you, who, if his son 
ask bread, will he give him a stone ? 10 or if he ask a 
fish, will he give him a serpent ? 1 1 If you then, being 
evil, know how to give good gifts unto your chil- 
dren, how much more shall your Father who is in 
heaven give good things to them that ask him? 
12 Therefore all things whatsoever you would that 
men do to you, do ye even so to them : for this is the 
law and the prophets. 

** * ** 

13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: For wide is the 
gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruc- 

Chapter 6:33-7:13 



7:14 The Gospel According to Matthew 19 

tion, and many there be that go in thereat; 14 
because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, 
that leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. 

** ** ** 

15 Beware of false prophets, that come to you in 
sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening 
wolves. 16 You shall know them by their fruits. Do 
men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 
Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; 
but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit . 1 8 A good 
tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a 
corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree 
that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and 
cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye 
shall know them. 

21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, 
shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that 
doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have 
we not prophesied in thy name, and in thy name 
cast out devils, and in thy name done many wonder- 
ful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, 
I never knew you: depart from me, you that work 
iniquity. 

24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of 
mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise 
man, who built his house upon a rock: 25 and the 
rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds 
blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for 
it was grounded upon a rock. 26 And every one that 
heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, 
shall be likened unto a foolish man, who built his 
house upon the sand : 27 and the rain descended, and 
the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon 
that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it." 



She Stttmi Summary 

28 And it came to pass, that when Jesus had ended these 
sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: 29 for he 
taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. 



Part (Eftm 
The Ministry in Galilee Continued 



§1. THE HEALING MINISTRY OF JESUS 

I. THE CLEANSING OF A LEPER 
The Leper's Request and Faith in Jesus 

And when he was come down from the mountain, great 
multitudes followed him. 2 And, behold, there came a leper and 
worshipped him, saying, "Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make 
me clean." 3 And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, 
saying, "I will: be thou clean." And immediately his leprousy 
was cleansed. 4 And Jesus said unto him, "See that thou tell 
no man; but go thy way, show thyself to the priest, and offer 
the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them." 2 



H. THE HEALING OF A CENTURION'S SERVANT 
The Great Faith of a Gentile Soldier 

5 And when Jesus had entered into Capernaum, there came 
unto him a centurion, beseeching him, 6 and saying, "Lord, my 
servant lieth at home, sick of the palsy, grievously tormented." 
7 And Jesus saith unto him, "I will come and heal him." 8 The 
centurion answered and said, "Lord, I am not worthy that thou 
shouldst come under my roof; but speak the word only, and my 
servant shall be healed. 9 For I am a man under authority, 
having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, 'Go,' and he 
goeth; and to another 'Come,' and he cometh; and to my ser- 
vant, 'Do this,' and he doeth it." 10 And when Jesus heard it 
he marvelled, and said to them that followed, "Verily, I say unto 
you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. 11 And I 
say unto you, that many shall come from the east and west, 
and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the 
kingdom of heaven. 12 But the children of the kingdom shall 
be cast out into outer darkness : there shall be weeping and gnash- 
ing of teeth." 13 And Jesus said unto the centurion, "Go thy 
way; as thou hast believed, so be it unto thee." And his servant 
was healed in the selfsame hour. 



1 The ministry of Jesus Christ as high priest. 2 Lev. 14: If. 

21 Chapter 8:1-13 



22 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

HI. THE HEALING OF PETER'S WIFE'S MOTHER 
The Home of Simon Peter at Capernaum 

14 And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his 
wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever. 15 And he touched her 
hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto 
them. 



IV. THE HEALING OF THE MULTITUDE 
The First Fulfilment of Prophecy 1 

16 When even was come, they brought unto him many that 
were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his 
word, and he healed all that were sick, 17 that it might be ful- 
filled that was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying, " Himself 
took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses." 2 



§2. THE DEPARTURE OF JESUS INTO GADARA 

I. THE WOULD-BE FOLLOWERS OF JESUS 

The Great Cost of Discipleship 

18 Now when Jesus saw the great multitudes about him, he 
gave, commandment to depart unto the other side. 19 And a 
certain scribe came, and said unto him, "Master, I will follow 
thee whithersoever thou goest." 20 And Jesus saith unto him, 
"The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but the 
Son of man hath not where to lay his head." 21 And another of 
his disciples said unto him, "Lord, suffer me first to go and bury 
my father." 22 But Jesus said unto him, "Follow me: and let 
the dead bury their dead." 



II. THE STILLING OF A GREAT TEMPEST 
The Obedience of the Winds and Sea 

23 And when he had entered into a ship, his disciples followed 
him. 24 And behold there arose a great tempest in the sea, 
insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was 
asleep. 25 And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, 
"Lord, save us: we perish." 26 And he saith unto them, "Why 
are you fearful, O ye of little faith?" Then he arose, and rebuked 
the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. 27 But the 
men marvelled, saying, "What manner of man is this, that even 
the winds and the sea obey him?" 

1 There are seven fulfilments of prophecy in the public life of Jesus. 
* Isa. 53 :4. 

Chapter 8:14-27 



8:28 The Gospel According to Matthew 23 

IH. THE HEALING OF THE GADARENE DEMONIACS 
The Rejection of Jesus in Gadara 

28 And when he was come to the other side into the country of 
the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with devils, coming 
out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by 
that way. 29 And, behold, they cried out, saying, "What have 
we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither 
to torment us before the time?" 30 And there was a good way off 
from them a herd of many swine feeding. 31 So the devils be- 
sought him, saying, "If thou cast us out, suffer us to go away 
into the herd of swine." 32 And he said unto them, "Go." And 
when they were come out, they went into the herd of swine: and, 
behold, the whole herd of swine ran violently down a steep place 
into the sea, and perished in the waters. 33 And they that kept 
them fled, and went their ways into the city, and told every thing, 
and what was befallen the possessed of the devils. 34 And, 
behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus: and when they 
saw him, they besought him that he would depart out of their 
coasts. 



§3, THE RETURN OF JESUS INTO GALILEE 

I. THE MAN FORGIVEN AND HEALED 
The Charge of Blasphemy 

9 : 1 And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into 
his own city. 2 And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of 
the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith, said unto 
the sick of the palsy, "Son, be of good cheer: thy sins be forgiven 
thee." 3 And, behold, certain of the scribes said within them- 
selves, "This man blasphemeth." 4 And Jesus knowing their 
thoughts said, "Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? 5 For 
which is easier, to say, ' Thy sins be forgiven thee;' or to say, 
Arise and walk? 6 But that you may know that the Son of man 
hath power on earth to forgive sins (then saith he to the sick of 
the palsy), Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house." 
7 And he arose and departed to his house. 8 But when the multi- 
tudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, who had given 
such power unto men. 

H. THE CALL OF MATTHEW THE PUBLICAN 
a. The Obedience of Matthew 

9 And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man named 
Matthew, sitting at the receipt of customs : and he saith unto him, 
"Follow me." And he arose, and followed him. 

Chapter 8:28-9:9 



24 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

b. The Feast of Matthew for Jesus 

10 And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, be- 
hold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him 
and his disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said 
unto the disciples, "Why eatest your master with publicans and 
sinners?" 12 But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, 
"They that are whole need not a physician, but they that are 
sick." 13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, 'I will have 
mercy, and not sacrifice;' for I am not come to call the righteous, 
but sinners to repentance." 



c. The Meaning of Matthew's Feast 

14 Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, "Why do 
we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not?" 15 And 
Jesus said unto them, "Can the children of the bridechamber 
mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the day will 
come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and 
then shall they fast. 16 No man putteth a piece of new cloth 
unto an old garment, for that which is put in to fill it up taketh 
from the garment, and the rent is made worse. 17 Neither do men 
put new wine in old bottles: else the bottles break, and the new 
wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but they put new 
wine into new bottles, and both are preserved." 



IH. THE RULER'S DAUGHTER AND THE INFIRM WOMAN 
The Widespread Fame of Jesus in Syria 

18 While he spoke these things unto them, behold, there came a 
certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, "My daughter is even 
now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall 
live." 19 And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did his 
disciples. 20 And, behold, a woman, who was diseased with an 
issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the 
hem of his garment: 21 for she said within herself, " If I may but 
touch his garment, I shall be whole." 22 But Jesus turned him- 
self about, and when he saw her, he said, "Daughter, be of good 
cheer; thy faith hath made thee whole." And the woman was 
made whole from that hour. 23 And when Jesus came into the 
ruler's house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a 
noise, 24 he said unto them, "Give place: for the maid is not 
dead, but sleepeth." And they laughed him to scorn. 25 But 
when the people were put forth, he went in and took her by the 

Chapter 9:10-25 



9:26 The Gospel According to Matthew 25 

hand, and the maid arose. 26 And the fame hereof went abroad 
in all that land. 



IV. THE BLIND MEN AND THE DEMONIAC 
a. The Healing of Two Blind Men 

27 And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed 
him, crying, and saying, " Thou son of David, have mercy on us." 
28 And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to 
him: and Jesus said unto them, "Believe ye that I am able to do 
this?" They said unto him, "Yea, Lord." 29 Then touched he 
their eyes, saying, "According to your faith be it unto you." 30 
And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, 
saying, "See that no man know it." 31 But they, when they had 
departed, spread abroad his fame in all that country. 



b. The Healing of the Dumb Demoniac 

32 As they went out, behold they brought to him a dumb man, 
possessed with a devil. 33 And when the devil was cast out, the 
dumb spoke: and the multitude marvelled, saying, "It was never 
so seen in Israel." 34 But the Pharisees said, "He casteth out 
devils through the prince of devils." 



§4. THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE TO THE JEWS 

I. THE GREAT COMPASSION OF JESUS 

The Ministry Through Galilee 

35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching 
in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, 
and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. 
36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with com- 
passion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, 
as sheep having no shepherd. 37 Then saith he unto the disciples, 
"The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; 38 
pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth 
labourers into his harvest." 



H. THE HEALING MISSION OF THE TWELVE 
The Great Power of the Apostles 

10: 1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he 
gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to 
heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. 

Chapter 9:26-10:1 



26 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

III. THE ORGANIZATION OF APOSTLES 
The Names of the Twelve 

2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: The first, 
Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the 
son of Zebedee, and John his brother; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; 
Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, 
and Lebbseus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the 
Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot [who also betrayed him]. 



IV. THE COMMISSION OF JESUS TO THE TWELVE 
The Second Seven-Fold Discourse 

5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, 
saying: * * * 

"Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into 
any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: 6 but go 
rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 

* 

7 And as you go, preach, saying, The kingdom of 

heaven is at hand. 

* 

8 Heal the sick, 

* 

Cleanse the lepers, 

Raise the dead, 

* 

Cast out devils: 

* 

Freely you have received, freely give. 
* * 

9 Provide neither gold, * nor silver, nor brass in 
your purses, 10 nor scrip for your journey, neither 
two coats, nor shoes, nor yet staves: for the work- 
man is worthy of his meat. 

* * * 

11 And into whatsoever town or city you shall en- 
ter, inquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till 
you go thence. 12 And when you come into a house, 
salute it. 13 And if the house be worthy, let your 
peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let 
your peace return to you. 14 And whosoever shall 



1 The seven-fold command against care. 

Chapter 10:2-14 



10:15 The Gospel According to Matthew 27 

not receive you, nor hear your words, when you 
depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of 
your feet. 15 Verily I say unto you, it shall be more 
tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the 
day of judgment, than for that city. 
** ** 

16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of 
wolves; be ye therefore wise as serpents and harm- 
less as doves. 17 But beware of men: for they will 
deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge 
you in their synagogues ; 1 8 and you shall be brought 
before the governors and kings for my sake, for a 
testimony against them and the Gentiles. 19 But 
when they deliver you up, take no thought how or 
what you shall speak; for it shall be given you in that 
same hour what you shall speak. 20 For it is not 
you that speak, but the spirit of your Father that 
speaketh in you. 21 And the brother shall deliver 
up the brother to death, and the father the child; 
and the children shall rise up against their parents, 
and cause them to be put to death. 22 And you 
shall be hated of all men for my name's sake : but he 
that endureth to the end shall be saved. 23 But 
when they persecute you in this city, flee ye unto 
another: for verily I say unto you, you shall not 
have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of 
man be come. 

24 The disciple is not above his master, nor the 
servant above his lord. 25 It is enough for the dis- 
ciple that he be as his master, and the servant as 
his lord. If they have called the master of the house 
Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of 
his household? 26 Fear them not therefore: for 
there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; 
and hid, that shall not be known. 27 What I tell 
you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what 
you hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the house- 
tops. 

28 And fear not them that kill the body, but are 
not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him who 
is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are 
not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of 
them shall not fall on the ground without your 
Father. 30 But the very hairs of your head are all 

Chapter 10:15-30 



28 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

numbered. 31 Fear not therefore, you are of more 
value than many sparrows. 

32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before 
men, him will I confess before my Father who is in 
heaven. 33 But whosoever shall deny me before 
men, him will I also deny before my Father who is 
is heaven. * 

34 Think not that I am come to send peace on the 
earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. 35 
For I came to set a man at variance against his 
father, and the daughter against her mother, and 
the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36 
And a man's foes shall be they of his own household. 

* 

37 He that loveth father and mother more than 
me, is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or 
daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 

* 

38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth 
after me, is not worthy of me. 

* 

39 He that findeth his life shall lose it; and he 
that loseth his life for my sake shall find it. 

* 

40 He that receiveth you receiveth me; and he 
that receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me. 

* 

41 He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a 
prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he 
that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a 
righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward. 

* 

42 And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of 
these little ones a cup of cold water in the name of a 
disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise 
lose his reward." 



She Shfrft Summary 

11:1 And it came to pass, that when Jesus had made an end 
of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach 
and to preach in their cities. 



Part JFoor 
The Ministry in Galilee Continued ! 



§1. THE MESSIAHSHIP OF JESUS 

I. THE INQUIRY OF JESUS BY JOHN THE BAPTIST 
a. The Seven-Fold Response of Jesus 

Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, 
he sent two of his disciples, 3 and said unto him, "Art thou he 
that should come, or do we look for another?" 4 Jesus answered 
and said unto them : 

"Go and show John again those things which 
you do hear and see: 

5 The blind receive their sight, 

* 
And the lame walk, 

* 
The lepers are cleansed, 

* 
And the deaf hear, 

The dead are raised up, 

* 

And the poor have the gospel preached to them. 
* 

6 And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be of- 
fended in me." 



b. The Witness of Jesus Concerning John 

7 And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multi- 
tude concerning John: "What went you out into the wilder- 

1 The ministry of Jesus Christ as King of Israel. 

29 Chapter 11:2-7 



30 The Greatest Book Ever Wr itten Part IV 

ness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? 8 But what went you 
out to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they that 
wear soft clothing are in king's houses. 9 But what went you out 
to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. 
10 For this is he of whom it is written: 



Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, 
Who shall prepare thy way before thee.' 1 



11 Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women 
there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwith- 
standing he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater 
than he. 12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now 
the kingdom of heaven suffer eth violence, and the violent take 
it by force. 13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until 
John. 14 And if you will receive it, this is Elijah who was to 
come. 15 He that hath ears to hear let him hear. 16 But where- 
unto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting 
in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, 17 and saying, ' We 
have piped unto you, and you have not danced ; we have mourned 
unto you, and you have not lamented. ' 18 For John came neither 
eating nor drinking, and they say, 'He hath a devil.' 19 The 
Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Behold a 
man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and 
sinners.' But wisdom is justified of her children." 



H. THE CONDEMNATION OF THE CITIES 
The Seven-Fold Saying of Jesus 

20 Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of his 
mighty works were done, because they repented not: 21 "Woe 
unto thee, Chorazin! Woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty 
works, that were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, 
they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. 22 
But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon 
at the day of judgment, than for you. 23 And thou, Capernaum, 
that art exalted unto heaven, shall be brought down to hell: for 
if the mighty works, that have been done in thee, had been done 
in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. 24 But I say 
unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom 
in the day of judgment than for thee." 

i Mai. 3:1. 

Chapter 11:8-24 



11:25 The Gospel According to Matthew 31 

m. THE GRACIOUS INVITATION OF CHRIST 
The Seven-Fold Saying of Jesus 

25 At that time Jesus answered and said: 

* * * 

"I thank thee, Father, Lord of heaven and 
earth, because thou hast hid these things from the 
wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto 
babes. 26 Even so, Father: for so it seemeth good 
in thy sight. * 

27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: 

* 
And no man knoweth the Son, but the Father: 
* 

Neither knoweth any man the Father, save the 
Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. 

* 

28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are 
heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 

* 

29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for 

I am meek and lowly in heart; and you shall find 

rest unto your souls. 

* 

30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." 



§2. THE LORDSHIP OF JESUS CHRIST 

I. THE LORDSHIP OF THE SABBATH 

a. The Disciples Plucking Corn 

12:1 At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through 
the corn; and his disciples were hungry, and began to pluck the 
ears of corn, and to eat. 2 But when the Pharisees saw it, they 
said unto him "Behold, thy disciples do that which it is not 
lawful to do on the sabbath day." 3 But he said unto them, 
"Have you not read what David did, when he was hungry, and 
they that were with him: 4 how he entered into the house of 
God, and did eat the shewbread, which it was not lawful for him 
to eat, neither for them that were with him, but only for the 
priests? 5 Or have you not read in the law, how that on the 
sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and 
are blameless? 6 But I say unto you, That in this place is one 
greater than the temple. 7 But if you had known what this 

Chapter 11:25-12:7 



32 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

meaneth, 'I will have mercy, and not sacrifice,' you would not 
have condemned the guiltless. 8 For the Son of man is lord even 
of the sabbath day." 

b. The Withered Hand Restored on the Sabbath 

9 And when he had departed thence, he went into their 
synagogue : 10 and, behold, there was a man who had his hand 
withered. And they asked him, saying, "Is it lawful to heal on 
the sabbath days?" that they might accuse him. 11 And he said 
unto them, "What man shall there be among you, that shall 
have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will 
he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? 12 How much then is a 
man better than a sheep ? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the 
sabbath days." 13 Then saith he to the man, "Stretch forth 
thy hand." And he stretched it forth; and it was restored whole, 
like as the other. 14 Then the Pharisees went out, and held a 
council against him, how they might destroy him. 



H. THE TRUE LORDSHIP OF JESUS 
The Second Fulfilment of Prophecy 

15 But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence, 
and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all; 16 
and charged them that they should not make him known; 17 that 
it might be fulfilled that was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, say- 
ing: * * * 

18 "Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; 

My beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: 

I will put my Spirit upon him, 

And he shall show judgment to the Gentiles. 

19 He shall not strive, nor cry; 

Neither shall any man hear his voice in the 
streets. 

20 A bruised reed shall he not break, 
And smoking flax shall he not quench, 
Till he send forth judgment unto victory. 

21 And in his name shall the Gentiles trust." * 



HI. THE CONDEMNATION OF BLASPHEMY 2 
The Third Seven-Fold Discourse 

22 Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, 
blind, and dumb : and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and 



i Isa. 42:lf. 

2 The lordship of Jesus over evil. Lange, Matthew: ad loc. 



Chapter 12:8-22 



12:23 The Gospel According to Matthew 33^ 

dumb both spoke and saw. 23 And all the people were amazed, 
and said, " Is not this the son of David?" 24 But when the Phar- 
isees heard it, they said, "This fellow doth not cast out devils, 
but by Beelzebub the prince of devils." 25 And Jesus knew their 
thoughts, and said unto them : 

* 

"Every kingdom divided against itself is brought 
to desolation; and every city or house divided 
against itself shall not stand: 26 and if Satan cast 
out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall 
then his kingdom stand? 27 And if I by Beelzebub 
cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them 
out? therefore they shall be your judges. 28 But if 
I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the 
kingdom of God is come upon you. 29 Or else how 
can one enter into a strong man's house, and spoil 
his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and 
then he will spoil his house. 



30 He that is not with me is against me; and he 
that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad. 



31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin 
and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the 
blasphemy against the Holy Spirit shall not be for- 
given unto men. 32 And whosoever speaketh a word 
against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him; 
but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Spirit, it 
shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, 
neither in the world to come. l 



33 Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; 
or else make the tree corrupt, and its fruit corrupt: 
for the tree is known by his fruits. 34 O generation 
of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak good things? 
for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth 
speaketh. 35 A good man out of the good treasure of 
the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil 
man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. 
36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that 
men shall speak, they shall give an account thereof in 
the day of judgment. 37 For by thy words thou 



1 The unpardonable sin. 

Chapter 12:23-37 



34 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt 
be condemned. * 

38 Then certain of the scribes and Pharisees answered, saying, 
" Master, we would see a sign from thee." 39 But he answered 
and said unto them: ***** 

"An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after 
a sign; and there shall be no sign given to it, but 
the sign of the prophet Jonah : 40 for as Jonah was 
three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so 
shall the Son of man be three days and three nights 
in the heart of the herth. 

** ** ** 

41 The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with 
this generation, and shall condemn it : because they 
repented at the preaching of Jonah; and, behold, a 
greater than Jonah is here. 42 The Queen of the 
south shall rise up in the judgment with this genera- 
tion, and shall condemn it: for she came from the 
uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of 
Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is 
here. *** * *** 

43 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he 
walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and find- 
eth none. 44 Then he saith, ' I will return into my 
house from whence I came out ;' and when he is come, 
he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. 45 Then 
goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits 
more wicked than himself, and they enter in and 
dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse 
than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this 
wicked generation." 



IV. THE TRUE SUBJECTS OF THE KINGDOM 
The Messianic Kindred of Jesus 

46 While he yet talked to the people, behold, his mother and 
his brothers stood without, desiring to speak with him. 47 Then 
one said to him, "Behold, thy mother and thy brothers stand 
without, desiring to speak with thee. ' ' 48 But he answered and said 
unto him that told him, "Who is my mother? and who are my 
brothers?" 49 And he stretched forth his hand toward his dis- 
ciples, and said, "Behold my mother and my brothers. 50 For 
whosoever shall do the will of my Father who is in heaven, the 
same is my brother, and sister, and mother." 

Chapter 12:38-50 



13:1 The Gospel According to Matthew 35 

§3. THE SEVEN PARABLES OF THE KINGDOM 1 

I. THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER 

a. The First Parable 

13:1 The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by 
the sea side. 2 And great multitudes were gathered together 
unto him, so that he went into a ship and sat; and the whole 
multitude stood on the shore. 3 And he spoke many things 
unto them in parables, saying: 

* * * 

"Behold, a sower went forth to sow; 4 and when 
he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and 
the fowls came and devoured them up : 5 some fell 
upon stony places, where they had not much earth: 
and forthwith they sprang up, because they had no 
deepness of earth: 6 and when the sun was up, 
they were scorched; and because they had no root, 
they withered away. 7 And some fell among thorns ; 
and the thorns sprang up, and choked them: 8 but 
others fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, 
some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirty- 
fold. 9 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear." 



b. The Significance of Parables 

10 And the disciples came, and said unto him, "Why speakest 
thou unto them in parables?" 11 He answered and said unto 
them: * 

"Because it is given unto you to know the 
mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it 
is not given. 12 For whosoever hath, to him shall be 
given, and he shall have more abundance: but who- 
soever hath not, from him shall be taken away even 
that he hath. 13 Therefore speak I to them in 
parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing 
they hear not, neither do they understand. 14 And 
in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, who 
saith: * * * 

'By hearing you shall hear, and shall 

not understand; 
And seeing you shall see, and shall not 
perceive ; 
15 For this people's heart is waxed gross, 



The fourth seven-fold discourse. 

Chapter 13:1-15 



36 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

And their ears are dull of hearing, 
And their eyes they have closed; 
Lest at any time they should see with 

their eyes, 
And hear with their ears, 
And should understand with their heart, 
And should be converted, 
And I should heal them. ' l 
* 

16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see ; and your 
ears, for they hear. 17 For verily I say unto you, 
that many prophets and righteous men have desired 
to see those things that you see, and have not seen 
them; and to hear those things that you hear, and 
have not heard them." 



c. The Exposition of the Sower 

18 "Hear ye then the parable of the sower: 19 
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, 
and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked 
one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his 
heart. This is he that receiveth seed by the way side. 
20 But he that received the seed into stony places, 
the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with 
joy receiveth it; 21 yet hath he no root in himself, 
but endureth for a while: for when tribulation or 
persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by 
he is offended. 22 He also that received seed among 
the thorns is he that heareth the word ; and the care of 
this world, and the deceitfulness of riches choke the 
word, and he becometh unfruitful. 23 But he that 
received seed into the good ground is he that heareth 
the word, and understandeth it; who also beareth 
fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, 
some sixty, some thirty." 



II. THE TARES OF THE FIELD 
The Second Parable 

24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying: 

* * * 

"The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man 
who sowed good seed in his field : 25 but while men 
slept his enemy came and sowed tares among the 



*Isa. 6:9f. 

Chapter 13:16-25 



13:26 The Gospel According to Matthew 37 

wheat, and went his way. 26 But when the blade 
was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared 
the tares also. 27 So the servants of the householder 
came and said unto him. 'Sir, didst not thou sow 
good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it 
tares ?' 28 He said unto them, 'An enemy hath done 
this ? The servants said unto him, ' Wilt thou then 
that we go and gather them up?' 29 But he said, 
' Nay : lest while you gather up the tares, you root up 
also the wheat with them . 30 Let both grow together 
until the harvest: and in the time of the harvest I 
will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the 
tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but 
gather the wheat into my barn." 



m. THE PARABLE OF THE MUSTARD SEED 
The Third Parable 

31 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying: 

* * * 

"The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of 
mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his 
field: 32 which indeed is the least of all seeds: 
but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, 
and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air 
come and lodge in the branches thereof." 



IV. THE PARABLE OF THE LEAVEN 
The Fourth Parable 

33 Another parable spoke he unto them : 

* * * 

"The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, 
which a woman took, and hid in three measures of 
meal, till the whole was leavened." 



RESUME 
The Third Fulfilment of Prophecy 

34 All these things spoke Jesus unto the multitude in parables; 
and without a parable spoke he not unto them: 35 that it 
might be fulfilled that was spoken by the prophet, saying: 

* * * 

"I will open my mouth in parables: 
I will utter things that have been kept secret 
from the foundation of the world." 1 



»Ps. 78:2. 

Chapter 13:26-35 



38 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

§4. THE SEVEN PARABLES CONCLUDED 

I. THE EXPOSITION OF THE TARES 

The Seven-Fold Saying of Jesus 

36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the 

house: and his disciples came unto him, saying: "Declare unto 

us the parable of the tares of the field." 37 He answered and 

said unto them: 

* * * 

"He that soweth the good seed is the Son of 

man; 

* 

38 The field is the world; 

* 

The good seed are the children of the king- 
dom; 

* 

But the tares are the children of the wicked 

one; 

* 

39 The enemy that sowed them is the devil; 

* 

The harvest is the end of the world; 

And the reapers are the angels. 
* 

40 As therefore the tares are gathered and burned 
in the fire, so shall it be in the end of this world. 41 
The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they 
shall gather out of his kingdom all things that of- 
fend, and them that do iniquity; 42 and shall cast 
them into a furnace of fire : there shall be wailing and 
gnashing of teeth. 43 Then shall the righteous 
shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. 
Who hath ears to hear, let him hear." 



H. THE HIDDEN TREASURE 
The Fifth Parable 

44 "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto 
treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath 
found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and 
selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field." 

Chapter 13:36-44 



13:45 The Gospel According to Matthew 39 

HI. THE PEARL OF GREAT PRICE 
The Sixth Parable 

45 "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a 
merchantman, seeking goodly pearls: 46 who, when 
he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold 
all that he had, and bought it." 



IV. THE PARABLE OF THE FISHING NET 
The Seventh Parable 

47 "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a 
net that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every 
kind : 48 which, when it was full, they drew to shore 
and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, 
but cast the bad away. 49 So shall it be at the end 
of the world: the angels shall come forth and sever 
the wicked from the just, 50 and shall cast them 
into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and 
gnashing of teeth." 



EPILOGUE 
The Things New and Old 

51 Jesus saith unto them, "Have you understood all these 
things?" They say unto him, "Yea, Lord." 52 Then said he 
unto them, "Therefore every scribe that is instructed unto the 
kingdom of heaven is like unto a man who is a householder, who 
bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old." 



She ffnurth Summary 

53 And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these 
parables, he departed thence. 



Port IFito* 
The Ministry in Galilee Concluded 



§1. THE REJECTION OF JESUS AT NAZARETH 

I. THE UNBELIEF OF THE PEOPLE 

The Seven-Fold Inquiry Concerning Jesus Christ 

And when he came into his own country, he taught them in 
their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said: 

* * * 

4 'Whence hath this man this wisdom; 
* 

And these mighty works? 

55 Is not this the carpenter's son? 

Is not his mother called Mary? 
* 

And his brothers, James, and Joseph, and 

Simeon, and Judas? 

* 

56 And his sisters, are they not all with us? 

Whence then hath this man all these things?" 
♦ 

57 And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, 
"A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and 
in his own house?" 58 And he did not many mighty works 
there because of their unbelief. 



II. THE FEAR OF HEROD THE TETRARCH 
The Martyrdom of John the Baptist 

14:1 At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of 
Jesus, 2 and said to his servants, "This is John the Baptist; 

1 The prophetic anticipations of the Passion. 

41 Chapter 13:54-14:2 



42 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do show 
forth themselves in him." 3 [For Herod had laid hold on John, 
and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his 
brother Phillip's wife. 4 For John said unto him, "It is not 
lawful for thee to have her." 5 And when he would have put 
him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him 
as a prophet. 6 But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daugh- 
ter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod. 7 Where- 
upon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would 
ask. 8 And she, being before instructed by her mother, said, ' ' Give 
me here John the Baptist's head in a charger." 9 And the king 
was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them that sat 
with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. 10 And he 
sent, and beheaded John in the prison. 11 And his head was 
brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought 
it to her mother. 12 And his disciples came, and took up the 
body and buried it, and went and told Jesus]. 



III. THE RETIREMENT TO THE DESERT 

The Feeding of the Five Thousand 

13 When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a 
desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof y they 
followed him on foot out of the cities. 14 And Jesus went forth, 
and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion 
toward them, and healed their sick. 15 And when it was evening, 
his disciples came to him, saying, "This is a desert place, and 
the time is now past ; send the multitude away, that they may go 
into the villages, and buy themselves victuals." 16 But Jesus 
said unto them, "They need not depart; give ye them to eat." 
17 And they said unto him, "We have here but five loaves and 
two fishes." 18 He said, "Bring them hither to me." 19 And 
he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took 
the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he 
blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the 
disciples to the multitude. 20 And they did all eat, and were 
filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve 
baskets full. 21 And they that had eaten were about five thou- 
sand men, beside women and children. 



IV. THE APPEARANCE OF JESUS ON THE SEA 
The Confession of the Son of God 

22 And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into 
a ship, and go before him unto the other side, while he sent the 
multitudes away. 23 And when he had sent the multitudes 

Chapter 14:3-23 



14:24 The Gospel According to Matthew 43 

away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray : and when the 
evening was come he was there alone. 24 But the ship was now 
in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was 
contrary. 25 And in the fourth watch 1 of the night Jesus went 
unto them, walking on the sea. 26 And when the disciples saw 
him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, " It is a spirit;" 
and they cried out for fear. 27 But straightway Jesus spoke 
unto them, saying, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid." 
28 And Peter answered him and said, "Lord, if it be thou, bid 
me come unto thee on the water." 29 And he said, "Come." 
And when Peter had come down out of the ship, he walked on 
the water, to go to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the winds boister- 
ous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, "Lord, 
save me." 31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, 
and caught him, and said unto him, " O thou of little faith, where- 
fore didst thou doubt?" 32 And when they were come into 
the ship, the wind ceased. 33 Then they that were in the ship 
came and worshipped him, saying, "Of a truth thou art the Son 
of God." 34 And when they were gone over, they came into 
the land of Geneseret. 35 And when the men of that place 
had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round 
about, and brought unto him all that were diseased; 36 and 
besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment : 
and as many as touched were made perfectly whole. 



§2. THE TRADITION OF THE ELDERS 

I. THE CONTROVERSY WITH THE AUTHORITIES 

a. The Reply of Jesus to the Jews 

15:1 Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, who were of 
Jerusalem, saying, 2 "Why do thy disciples transgress the 
tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they 
eat bread." 3 But he answered and said unto them, "Why do 
you also transgress the commandment of God by your traditions? 

4 For God commanded, saying, 'Honour thy father and mother; ' 2 
and, ' He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. ' 8 

5 But you say, 'Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, 
It is sl gift, by whatsoever thou might est be profited by me ; 6 and 
honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free.' Thus have 
you made the commandment of God of none effect by your 
tradition. 7 You hypocrites, well did Isaiah prophesy of you, 
saying: * * * 

8 'This people draweth nigh unto me with 
their mouth, 



1 Between 3 and 6 o'clock a. m. 2 Ex. 20:12. s Ex. 21:17. 

Chapter 14:24-15:8 



44 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

And honoureth me with their lips; 
But their heart is far from me. 
9 But in vain they do worship me, 

Teaching for doctrines the commandments 
of men. '" 1 



b. The Exposition for the Multitudes 

10 And he called the multitude, and said unto them, "Hear, 
and understand: 11 Not that which goeth into the mouth 
defileth a man, but that which cometh out of the mouth, this 
defileth a man." 



c. The Offence for the Pharisees 

12 Then came his disciples, and said unto him, "Knowest thou 
that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?" 
13 But he answered and said, "Every plant, which my heavenly 
Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. 14 Let them 
alone: they are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead 
the blind, both shall fall into the ditch." 



d. The Seven-Fold Defilement of Man 

15 Then answered Peter and said unto him, "Declare unto us 
this parable." 16 And Jesus said, "Are you also yet without 
understanding? 17 Do not you yet understand, that whatso- 
ever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast 
out into the draught? 18 But those things that proceed out 
of the mouth come forth from the heart ; and they defile the man. 
19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, 
fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: 20 these are 
the things that defile a man; but to eat with unwashed hands 
defileth not a man." 



H. THE RETIREMENT TO TYRE AND SIDON 
The Healing of a Demoniac Girl 

21 Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of 
Tyre and Sidon. 22 And behold, a woman of Canaan came out 
of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, "Have mercy on 
me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed 
with a devil." 23 But he answered her not a word. And his 
disciples came and besought him, saying, "Send her away; for 

Us. 29:13. 

Chapter 15:9-23 



15:24 The Gospel According to Matthew 45 

she crieth after us." 24 But he answered and said, "I am not 
sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel." 25 Then 
came she and worshipped him, saying, "Lord, help me." 26 
But he answered and said, "It is not meet to take the children's 
bread, and cast it to dogs." 27 And she said, "Truth, Lord: 
yet the dogs eat of the crumbs that fall from their master's table." 
28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, "O woman, great is 
thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt." And her daughter 
was made whole from that very hour. 



HI. THE RETURN TO THE SEA OF GALILEE 
a. The Healing of the Multitudes 

29 And Jesus departed from thence, and came nigh unto the 
sea of Galilee; and went up into a mountain, and sat down there. 
30 And great multitudes came unto him, having with them those 
that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast 
them down at Jesus' feet; and he healed them: 31 insomuch 
that the multitudes wondered, when they saw the dumb speak, 
the maimed to be whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: 
and they glorified the God of Israel. 



b. The Feeding of the Four Thousand 

32 Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, "I have 
compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now 
three days, and have nothing to eat : and I will not send them away 
fasting, lest they faint in the way." 33 And his disciples say 
unto him, "Whence should we have so much bread in the wilder- 
ness, as to fill so great a multitude?" 34 And Jesus saith unto 
them, "How many loaves have you?" And they said, "Seven, 
and a few little fishes." 35 And he commanded the multitude 
to sit down on the ground. 36 And he took the seven loaves 
and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his 
disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. 31 And they did 
all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat of 
that was left seven baskets full. 38 And they that did eat were 
four thousand men, beside women and children. 39 And he 
sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts 
of Magdala. 

IV. THE DANGER OF THE JEWISH PARTIES 
a. The Request for a Sign from Heaven 

16 : 1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting 
desired him that he would show them a sign from heaven. 2 He 

Chapter 15:24-16:2 



46 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

answered and said unto them, "When it is evening, you say, 'It 
will be fair weather: for the sky is red.' 3 And in the morning, 
'It will be foul weather to-day; for the sky is red and lowering.' O 
you hypocrites, you can discern the face of the sky; but can you 
not discern the signs of the times? 4 A wicked and adulterous 
generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall be no sign given 
unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah." And he left them and 
departed. 



b. The Leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees 

5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they 
had forgotten to take bread. 6 Then said Jesus unto them, 
"Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the 
Sadducees." 7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, 
"It is because we have taken no bread," 8 which, when Jesus per- 
ceived, he said unto them, "O ye of little faith, why reason ye 
among yourselves, because you have brought no bread? 9 Do 
you not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the 
five thousand, and how many baskets you took up? 10 neither 
the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets 
you took up? 11 How is it that you do not understand that I 
spoke it not to you concerning bread, that you should beware 
of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?" 12 Then 
understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven 
of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees. 



§3. THE TRUE GLORY OF JESUS CHRIST 

I. THE GREAT CONFESSION OF PETER 

The Seven-Fold Saying of Jesus 

13 When Jesus came into the borders of Csesarea Philippi, he 
asked his disciples, saying, "Who do men say that I the Son of 
man am?" 14 And they said, "Some say that thou art John the 
Baptist: some, Elijah; and others, Jeremiah, or one of the proph- 
ets." 15 He saith unto them, "But who say ye that I am?" 
16 And Peter answered and said, "Thou art the Christ, the Son 
of the living God." 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him: 

"Blessed art thou, Simon, son of John: for 
flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my 
Father who is heaven. 

Chapter 16:3-1 



16:18 The Gospel According to Matthew 47 

18 And I say unto thee, That thou art Peter, 

* 
And upon this rock I will build my church; 

* 
And the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 

* 

19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the king- 
dom of heaven: 

* 

And whatsoever thou shalt bind 1 on earth 
shall be bound in heaven : 

* 

And whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth 
shall be loosed in heaven." 

* 

20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man 
that he was Jesus the Christ. 



H. THE BEGINNING OF THE PASSION FORECASTS 

The Seven-Fold Saying of Jesus 

21 From that time forth began Jesus to show unto his disciples, 
how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of 
the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be 
raised again the third day. 22 Then Peter took him, and began 
to rebuke him, saying, "Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not 
be unto thee." 23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, "Get 
thee behind me, Satan; thou art an offence unto me: for thou 
savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of 
men." 24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples: 

* * * 

"If any man will come after me, let him deny 
himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 

25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: 

* 

And whosoever will lose his life for my sake 
shall find it. 

26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the 



1 "Bind and loose: A Rabbinical phrase for prohibit and permit." 

Chapter 16:18-26 



48 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a 
man give in exchange for his soul? 

* 

27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory 
of his Father with his angels ; 

* 

And then shall he reward every man according 

to his works. 

* 

28 Verily I say unto you, There are some standing 
here, who shall not taste of death, till they shall 
see the Son of man coming in his kingdom." 



IH. THE TRANSFIGURATION OF JESUS 

a. The Witnessing Apostles and the Voice from Heaven 

17:1 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James and John 
his brother, and bringeth them up into a high mountain apart, 
2 and was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as 
the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. 3 And behold 
there appeared unto them Moses and Elijah talking with him. 
4 Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, "Lord, it is good for 
us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; 
one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah." 5 While 
he yet spoke, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and 
behold a voice out of the cloud, which said: "This is my Be- 
loved Son, in whom I am well pleased : hear ye him." 6 And when 
the disciples heard it they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. 
7 And Jesus came and touched them, and said, "Arise, and be 
not afraid." 8 And when they had lifted up their eyes, they 
saw no man, save Jesus only. 



b. The Silence Until the Resurrection 

9 And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged 
them, saying, "Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man 
be risen from the dead." 10 And his disciples asked him, saying, 
"Why then say the scribes that Elijah must first come?" 11 And 
Jesus answered and said unto them, "Elijah truly shall first come, 
and restore all things. 12 But I say unto you, that Elijah is 
come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him 
whatsoever they would. Likewise also shall the Son of man suffer 
of them." 13 Then the disciples understood that he spoke unto 
them of John the Baptist. 

Chapter 16:27-17:13 



17:14 The Gospel According to Matthew 49 

IV. THE HEALING OF AN EPILEPTIC BOY 
a. The Father's Request of Jesus 

14 And when they were come to the multitude, there came to 
him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, 15 "Lord, 
have mercy on my son: for he is epileptic, and suffereth grievously: 
for ofttines he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. 16 And 
I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him." 
17 Then answered Jesus and said, "0 faithless and perverse 
generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer 
you? bring him hither to me." 18 And Jesus rebuked the devil; 
and he departed out of him; and the child was cured from that 
very hour. 

b. The Disciples' Unbelief Rebuked 

19 Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, "Why 
could we not cast him out?" 20 And Jesus said unto them, 
"Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If you have 
faith as a grain of mustard seed, you shall say unto this moun- 
tain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and 
nothing shall be impossible unto you. 21 Howbeit this kind 
goeth not out but by prayer and fasting." 



§4. THE CLOSE OF THE MINISTRY IN GALILEE 

I. THE FORECAST AGAIN OF THE PASSION 
The Great Sorrow of the Disciples 

22 And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them, 
"The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men: 23 
and they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again." 
And they were exceeding sorry. 



H. THE PROVISION FOR THE TRIBUTE 
The Coin in the Fish's Mouth 

24 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that re- 
ceived the tribute money came to Peter, and said, " Doth not your 
Master pay tribute? 25 He saith, "Yea." And when he was 
come into the house, Jesus prevented 1 him, saying, "What 
thinkest thou, Simon, of whom do the kings of the earth take 
custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?" 26 
Peter saith unto him, "Of strangers." Jesus saith unto him, 
"Then are the children free. 27 Notwithstanding, lest we should 

1 Anticipated. 

Chapter 17:14-27 



50 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast a hook, and take up the 
fish that first cometh up ; and when thou hast opened his mouth, 
thou shalt find a piece of money; that take and give unto them 
for me and thee." 

III. THE QUESTION OF RANK IN THE KINDGOM 
The Fifth Seven-Fold Discourse 

18:1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, 
"Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" 2 And Jesus 
called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, 3 
and said: * 

"Verily I say unto you, Except you be con- 
verted, and become as little children, you shall not 
enter into the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whosoever 
therefore shall humble himself as this little child, 
the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 
And whoso shall receive one such little one in my 
name receiveth me. 6 But whoso shall offend one of 
these little ones that believe in me, it were better 
for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, 
and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. 

* * 

7 Woe unto the world because of offences! for 
it must needs be that offences come; but woe to 
that man by whom the offence cometh ! 

* * * 

8 Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, 
cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better 
for thee to enter into life half or maimed, rather 
than having two hands or two feet to be cast into 
everlasting fire. 9 And if thine eye offend thee, 
pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for 
thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than 
having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. 

10 Take heed that you despise not one of these 

little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven 

their angels do always behold the face of my Father 

who is in heaven. 

** * ** 

11 For the Son of man is come to save that 
which was lost. ****** 

12 How think you? if a man have a hundred sheep, 
and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave 

Chapter 18:1-12 



18:13 The Gospel According to Matthew 51 

the ninety and nine, and go into the mountains, and 
seek that which is gone astray? 13 And if it so 
be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he re- 
joiceth more over that sheep than over the ninety 
and nine that went not astray. 14 Even so it is 
not the will of your Father who is in heaven, that 
one of these little ones should perish. 
*** * **# 

15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against 

thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and 

him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained 

thy brother. 

* 

16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee 
one or two more that in the mouth of one or two 
witnesses every word may be established. 

* 

17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it 

unto the church: 

* 

But if he neglect to hear the church, let him 
be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican. 

* 

18 Verily I say unto you, whatsoever you shall 
bind on earth shall be bound in heaven : and what- 
soever you shall loose on earth shall be loosed in 

heaven. 

* 

19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you 

shall agree on earth as touching any thing that 

they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father 

who is in heaven. 

* 

20 For where two or three are gathered together 
in my name, there am I in the midst of them." 



IV. THE INSTRUCTION IN FORGIVENESS 

The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant 

21 Then came Peter to him, and said, ''Lord, how oft shall my 
brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?" 22 
Jesus saith unto him, "I say not unto thee, 'Until seven times:' 
but, Until seventy times seven. 23 Therefore is the kingdom of 
heaven likened unto a certain king, who would take account of 

Chapter 18:13-23 



52 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

his servants. 24 And when he had begun to reckon, one was 
brought unto him who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 But 
forasmuch as he had not wherewith to pay, his lord commanded 
him to be sold, and his wife, and his children, and all that he had, 
and payment to be made. 26 The servant therefore fell down, 
and worshipped him, saying, 'Lord, have patience with me, and 
I will pay thee all.' 27 Then the lord of that servant was moved 
with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. 28 
But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow- 
servants, who owed him a hundred pence: and he laid hands on 
him, and took him by the throat, saying, 'Pay me that thou 
owest.' 29 And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and 
besought him, saying, 'Have patience with me, and I will pay 
thee all.' 30 And he would not: but went and cast him into 
prison, till he should pay the debt. 31 So when his fellowser- 
vants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and 
told unto their lord all that was done. 32 Then his lord, after 
that he had called him, said unto him, 'O thou wicked servant, 
I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desirest me: 33 
shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowser- 
vant, even as I had pity on thee?' 34 And his lord was wroth, 
and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that 
was due unto him. 35 So likewise shall my heavenly Father do 
also unto you, if you from your hearts forgive not every one his 
brother their trespasses." 

She ffftth Summary 

19:1 And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these 
sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the borders of 
Judaea beyond the Jordan; 2 and great multitudes followed 
him; and he healed them there. 



Part Six 
The Ministry of Jesus in Jerusalem 



§1. THE SOJOURN BEYOND THE JORDAN 

I. THE QUESTION OF DIVORCE 

The Importance of the Marriage Relation 

And the Pharisees came unto him, tempting him, and 
saying unto him, "Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife 
for every cause?" 4 And he answered and said unto them, 
"Have you not read that he that made them at the beginning 
made them male and female?" 5 and said, "For this cause 
shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his 
wife: and they twain shall be one flesh. 6 Wherefore they are no 
more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined 
together, let no man put asunder." 7 They say unto him, 
"Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, 
and to put her away ?" 8 He saith unto them, " Moses because of 
the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives : 
but from the beginning it was not so. 9 And I say unto you, 
Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, 
and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso mar- 
rieth her that is put away doth commit adultery." 10 His dis- 
ciples say unto him, "If the case of a man be so with his wife, 
it is not good to marry." 11 But he said unto them, "All men 
cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given. 12 
For there are some eunuchs, who were so from their birth; and 
there are some eunuchs who were made so by men; and there 
are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom 
of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it." 



H. THE SUBJECTS OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN 
The Blessing of Jesus upon the Children 

13 Then were brought unto him little children, that he should 
put his hands on them, and pray : and the disciples rebuked them. 
14 But Jesus said, "Suffer little children, and forbid them not, 

1 The kingly surrender of Jesus as the Messiah. 

53 Chapter 19:3-14 



54 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven." 15 
And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence. 



m. THE QUESTION OF THE RICH YOUNG MAN 
The Great Refusal to Follow Jesus 

16 And, behold, one came and said unto him, "Good Master, 
what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?" 17 
And he said unto him, "Why callest thou me good? there is none 
good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep 
the commandments." 18 He saith unto him, "Which?" Jesus 
said: * * * 

"Thou shalt do no murder, 
Thou shalt not commit adultery, 
Thou shalt not steal, 
Thou shalt not bear false witness, 
19 Honour thy father and thy mother; and 
Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." 1 
* 

20 The young man saith unto him, "All these things have I 
kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?" 21 Jesus said unto 
him, " If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give 
to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come 
and follow me." 22 But when the young man heard that saying, 
he went away sorrowful : for he had great possessions. 



b. The Rich and the Kingdom of Heaven 

23 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, " Verily I say unto you, 
that a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. 
24 And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through 
the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom 
of God." 25 When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly 
amazed, saying, "Who then can be saved?" 26 But Jesus 
beheld them, and said unto them, "With men this is impossible; 
but with God all things are possible." 



c. The Seven-Fold Renunciation and Reward 

27 Then answered Peter and said unto him, "Behold, we have 
forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?" 
28 And Jesus said unto them, "Verily I say unto you, that you 
that have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man 
shall sit on the throne of his glory, you also shall sit upon twelve 

»Ex. 20:12f. 

Chapter 19:15-28 



19:29 The Gospel According to Matthew 55 

thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And every 
one that hath forsaken houses, or brothers, or sisters, or father, 
or mother, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive 
a hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life." 



d. The First and Last in the Kingdom i 

30 "But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall 
be first. 20 : 1 For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is 
a householder, who went out early in the morning to hire labourers 
in his vineyard. 2 And when he had agreed with the labourers 
for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 And he went 
out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the 
marketplace, 4 and said unto them : ' Go ye also into the vine- 
yard, and whatsoever is right I will give you.' And they went 
their way. 5 And again he went out about the sixth and ninth 
hours, and did likewise. 6 And about the eleventh hour he went 
out, and found others standing idle, and said unto them, 'Why 
stand ye here all the day idle?' 7 They said unto him, 'Because 
no man hath hired us.' He saith unto them, 'Go ye also into the 
vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall you receive.' 8 So 
when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his 
steward, 'Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning 
from the last unto the first.' 9 And when they came that were 
hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. 

10 But when the first came, they supposed that they should have 
received more; and they likewise received every man a penny. 

11 And when they had received it, they murmured against the 
good man of the house, 12 saying, 'These last have wrought 
but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, that have 
borne the burden and heat of the day.' 13 But he answered one 
of them, and said, ' Friend, I do thee no wrong : did not thou agree 
with me for a penny? 14 Take that which is thine, and go thy 
way: I will give unto this last man even as unto thee. 15 Is it 
not lawful for me to do what I will with my own ? Is thine eye evil 
because I am good?' 16 So the last shall be first, and the first 
last: for many are called, but few chosen." 



§2. THE APPROACH OF JESUS TO JERUSALEM 

I. THE FORECAST AGAIN OF THE CRUCIFIXION 

The Seven-Fold Passion Foretold 

17 And Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve disciples 
apart in the way, and said unto them : 

1 The Parable of the Labourers. 

Chapter 19:29-20:17 



56 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

* * * 

18 "Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; 

* 

And the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the 
chief priests and unto the scribes, 

* 

And they shall condemn him to death, 
* 

19 And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to 



mock, 



* 

And to scourge, 

* 

And to crucify him : 

* 

And the third day he shall rise again." 



H. THE MOTHER OF ZEBEDEE'S CHILDREN 
a. The Request for James and John 

20 Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with 
her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. 
21 And he said unto her, "What wilt thou?" She said unto him, 
"Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right 
hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. 22 But Jesus 
answered and said, "You know not what you ask. Are you able 
to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with 
the baptism that I am baptized with?" They said unto him, "We 
are able." 23 And he saith unto them, "You shall indeed drink 
of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized 
with : but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to 
give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my 
Father." 

b. The Indignation of the Ten Disciples 

24 And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indigna- 
tion against the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them unto 
him, and said, "You know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise 
dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority 
upon them. 26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever 
will be great among you, let him be your minister; 27 and 
whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 
28 even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but 
to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many." 

Chapter 20:18-28 



20:29 The Gospel According to Matthew 57 

HI. THE HEALING OF TWO BLIND MEN 
The Recognition of the Son of David 

29 And as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude fol- 
lowed him. 30 And, behold, two blind men sitting by the way 
side, when they heard that Jesus passed by, cried out, saying, 
"Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou son of David." 31 And the 
multitude rebuked them, because they should hold their peace: 
but they cried the more, saying, "Have mercy on us, O Lord, 
thou son of David." 32 And Jesus stood still, and called them, 
and said, "What will ye that I should do unto you?" 33 They 
say unto him, "Lord, that our eyes may be opened." 34 So 
Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and im- 
mediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him. 



§3. THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM 

I. THE MESSIANIC RECEPTION OF JESUS 

The Fourth Fulfilment of Prophecy 

21:1 And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come 
to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two 
disciples, 2 saying unto them, "Go into the village over against 
you and straightway you shall find an ass tied, and a colt with 
her: loose them, and bring them unto me. 3 And if any man 
say aught unto you, you shall say, "The Lord hath need of them; 
and straightway he will send them." 4 All this was done, that 
it might be fulfilled that was spoken by the prophet, saying: 

* * * 

5 "Tell ye the daughter of Zion, 

Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, 
Meek, and sitting upon an ass, 
And a colt the foal of an ass." x 
* 

6 And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them, 
7 and brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, 
and they set him thereon. 8 And a great multitude spread their 
garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, 
and strewed them in the way. 9 And the multitudes that went 
before, and that followed, cried, saying: 



Hosanna to the son of David: 
Blessed is he that cometh in the name 

of the Lord; 
Hosanna in the highest."' 



*Z«ch. 9:9. * Ps. 118:25f. 

Chapter 20:29-21:9 



58 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

10 And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was 
moved, saying, "Who is this?" 11 And the multitude said, 
"This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee." 



n. THE CLEANSING OF THE TEMPLE OF GOD 
The House of Prayer a Den of Thieves 

12 And Jesus went into the temple of God; and cast out all 
them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables 
of the money changers, and the seats of them that sold doves, 
13 and said unto them, "It is written, 'My house shall be called 
a house of prayer; 1 ' but you make it a den of thieves." 14 And 
the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed 
them. 15 And when the chief priests and scribes saw the won- 
derful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, 
and saying, "Hosanna to the son of David," they were sore dis- 
pleased, 16 and said unto him, "Hearest thou what these say?" 
And Jesus saith unto them, "Yea; have you never read, 'Out 
of the mouths of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?' " l 
17 And he left them and went out of the city unto Bethany; and 
he lodged there. 

HI. THE CURSING OF THE FIG TREE 
The Greatness of Faith and Prayer 

18 Now in the morning, as he returned into the city, he hun- 
gered. 19 And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to 
it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, 
" Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever." And presently 
the fig tree withered away. 20 And when the disciples saw it 
they marvelled, saying, "How soon is the fig tree withered away!" 

21 Jesus answered and said unto them, "Verily I say unto you, 
If you have faith, and doubt not, you shall not only do this that 
is done to the fig tree, but also if you shall say unto this mountain, 
Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea, it shall be done. 

22 And all things, whatsoever you shall ask in prayer, believing, 
you shall receive." 

IV. THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS CHRIST 
a. The Inquiry of the Sanhediin 

23 And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests 
and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching 
and said, "By what authority doest thou these things? and who 

»Ps. 8:2. 

Chapter 21:10-23 



21:24 The Gospel According to Matthew 59 

gave thee this authority?" 24 And Jesus answered and said unto 
them, "I will also ask you one thing, which if you tell me, I in 
like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things. 25 
The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men?" 
And they reasoned with themselves, saying, "If we shall say, 
From heaven, he will say unto us, Why did you not then believe 
him? 26 But if we shall say, of men; we fear the people; for all 
hold John as a prophet." 27 And they answered Jesus, and 
said, "We cannot tell." And he said unto them, "Neither tell 
I you by what authority I do these things." 



b. The Parable of the Two Sons 

28 "But what think you? A certain man had two sons; and he 
came to the first, and said, 'Son, go work to day in my vineyard.' 
29 He answered and said, ' I will not :' but afterward he repented, 
and went. 30 And he came to the second, and said likewise. 
And he answered and said, 'I go, sir:' and went not. 31 Which 
of the twain did the will of his father?" They say unto him, 
"The first." Jesus saith unto them, "Verily I say unto you, 
That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God 
before you. 32 For John came unto you in the way of righteous- 
ness, and you believed him not: but the publicans and the har- 
lots believed him: and you, when you had seen it, repented not 
afterward, that you might believe him." 



c. The Parable of the Wicked Husbandmen 

33 "Hear another parable: There was a certain householder, 
who planted a vineyard and hedged it round about, and digged a 
winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, 
and went into a far country. 34 And when the time of the 
fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, that 
they might receive the fruits of it. 35 And the husbandmen 
took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned 
another. 36 Again, he sent other servants more than the first: 
and they did unto them likewise. 37 But last of all he sent unto 
them his son, saying, 'They will reverence my son.' 38 But 
when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, 
'This is the heir: come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his in- 
heritance.' 39 And they caught him, and cast him out of the 
vineyard, and slew him. 40 When the lord therefore of the vine- 
yard cometh what will he do unto these husbandmen?" 41 
They say unto him, "He will miserably destroy these wicked 
men, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, who 

Chapter 21:24-41 



60 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

shall render him the fruits in their season." 42 Jesus said unto 
them, "Did you never read in the scriptures: 

* * * 

"The stone which the builders rejected, 
The same is become the head of the corner; 
This is the Lord's doing, 
And it is marvellous in our eyes." * 

* 

43 Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken 
away from you, and given to the nation bringing forth the fruits 
thereof. 44 And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be 
broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to 
powder." 45 And when the chief priests and Pharisees had 
heard his parables, they perceived that he spoke of them. 46 
But when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared the mul- 
titude, because they took him for a prophet. 



d. The Parable of the Marriage Feast 

22: 1 And Jesus answered and spoke unto them again by para- 
bles, and said: 2 "The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain 
king, who made a marriage feast for his son, 3 and sent forth 
his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and 
they would not come. 4 Again, he sent forth other servants, 
saying, 'Tell them that are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my 
dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are 
ready: come unto the marriage feast.' 5 But they made light 
of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his mer- 
chandise: 6 and the remnant took his servants, and treated 
them spitefully, and slew them. 7 But when the king heard 
thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed 
those murderers, and burned up their city. 8 Then saith he to 
his servants, 'The wedding is ready, but they that were bidden 
were not worthy. 9 Go ye therefore into the highways, and as 
many as you shall find, bid to the marriage.' 10 So those ser- 
vants went out into the highways, and gathered together all, as 
many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was 
furnished with guests. 11 And when the king came in to see 
the guests, he saw there a man that had not on a wedding gar- 
ment: 12 and he saith unto him, 'Friend, how earnest thou in 
hither not having a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. 
13 Then said the king to his servants, ' Bind him hand and foot, 
and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness : there shall 

*Ps. 118:22f. 

Chapter 21:42-22:13 



22:14 The Gospel According to Matthew 61 

be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' 14 For many are called, but 
few are chosen." 



§4. THE CONTROVERSY WITH THE RULERS 

I. THE PLOT OF THE PHARISEES 

a. The Question of the Pharisees and Herodians 

15 Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might 
entangle him in his talk. 16 And they sent out unto him their 
disciples with the Herodians, saying, "Master, we know that 
thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither 
carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of 
men. 17 Tell us therefore, what thinkest thou? Is it lawful to 
give tribute unto Caesar, or not?" 18 But Jesus perceived their 
wickedness, and said, "Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? 19 
Show me the tribute money." And they brought unto him a 
penny. 20 And he saith unto them, "Whose is this image and 
superscription?" 21 They say unto him, "Caesar's." Then saith 
he unto them, "Render therefore unto Caesar the things that are 
Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's." 22 When 
they heard these words, they marvelled, and left him, and went 
their way. 



b. The Question of the Sadducees 

23 The same day came to him the Sadducees, who say that there 
is no resurrection, and asked him, 24 saying, "Master, Moses 
said, 'If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry 
his wife, and raised up seed unto his brother.' l 25 Now there 
were with us seven brothers: and the first, when he had married 
a wife, deceased, and, having no issue, left his wife unto his 
brother: 26 likewise the second also, and the third, unto the 
seventh. 27 And last of all the woman died also. 28 There- 
fore in the resurrection whose wife shall she be of the seven? for 
they all had her." 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, "You 
do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. 30 For 
in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, 
but are as the angels of God in heaven. 31 But as touching the 
resurrection of the dead, have you not read that which was 
spoken unto you by God, saying, 32 'I am the God of Abraham, 
and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob ? ' * God is not the God 
of the dead, but of the living." 33 And when the multitude 
heard this, they were astonished at this doctrine. 

1 Gen. 38:3. >Ex. 3:6. 

Chapter 22:14-33 



62 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

c. The Question of a Lawyer 

34 But when the Pharisees heard that he had put the Sad- 
ducees to silence, they were gathered together. 35 Then one 
of them, who was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, 
and saying, 36 "Master, which is the great commandment in 
the law?" 37 Jesus said unto him, 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy 
God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy 
mind.' x 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And 
the second is like unto it, 'Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thy- 
self.' 2 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and 
the prophets." 



d. The Counter Question of Jesus 

41 While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked 
them, 42 saying, "What think ye of Christ? whose son is he?" 
They say unto him, " The Son of David." 43 He saith unto 
them, "How then doth David in the Spirit call him Lord, saying. 

* * * 

44 'The Lord said unto my Lord, 
Sit thou on my right hand, 
Till I make thine enemies thy footstool?' ■ 
* 

45 If David therefore called him Lord, how is he his son?" 46 
And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any 
man from that day forth ask him any more questions. 



II. THE GREAT INDICTMENT OF THE PHARISEES 
The Sixth Seven-Fold Discourse 

23 : 1 Then spoke Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, 
2 saying: 

Prologue 

"The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' 
seat: 3 all therefore whatsoever they bid you ob- 
serve, that observe and do; but do not ye after 
their works: for they say, and do not. 4 For they 
bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and 
lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves 
will not move them with one of their fingers. 5 
But all their works they do for to be seen of men. * 



1 Deut. 6:5. 2 Lev. 19:18. 3 Ps. 110:1. 

4 The seven-fold vanity of the scribes and Pharisees. 

Chapter 22:34-23:5 



23:6 The Gospel According to Matthew 63 

They make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the 
borders of their garments, 6 and love the upper- 
most rooms at the feasts, and the chief seats in 
the synagogues, 7 and greetings in the markets, and 
to be called of men, 'Rabbi, Rabbi.' 8 But be not 
ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even 
Christ; and all ye are brethren. 9 And call no 
man father upon the earth : for one is your Father, 
who is in heaven. 10 Neither be ye called masters: 
for one is your Master, even Christ. 11 But he 
that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 
12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased ; 
and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. 

* 

13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hy- 
pocrites! for you shut up the kingdom of heaven 
against men: for you neither go in yourselves, 
neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. 

* * 

14 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypo- 
crites! for you devour widow's houses, and for a 
pretence make loud prayer: therefore you shall 
receive the greater damnation. 

* * * 

15 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypo- 
crites! for you compass sea and land to make one 
proselyte, and when he is made, you make him two- 
fold more the child of hell than yourselves. 16 
Woe unto you, ye blind guides, who say, ' Whosoever 
shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but who- 
soever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he 
is a debtor!' 17 Ye fools and blind: for which is 
greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth 
the gold? 18 And, 'Whosoever shall swear by the 
altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by 
the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.' 19 Ye fools 
and blind: for which is greater, the gift, or the 
altar that sanctifieth the gift? 20 Whoso there- 
fore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it and by all 
things thereon. 21 And whoso shall swear by 
the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth 
therein. 22 And he that shall swear by heaven, 
sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that 
sitteth thereon. 

Chapter 23:6-22 



64 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 



23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypo- 
crites! for you pay tithe of mint and anise and 
cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of 
the law, judgment, mercy and faith: these ought 
you to have done, and not to leave the other un- 
done. 24 Ye blind guides, who strain at a gnat, 
and swallow a camel. 

** * ** 

25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypo- 
crites! for you make clean the outside of the cup 
and of the platter, but within they are full of 
extortion and excess. 26 Thou blind Pharisee, 
cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, 
that the outside of them may be clean also. 
** ** ** 

27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypo- 
crites! for you are like unto whited sepulchres, 
which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are 
within full of dead men's bones, and of all un- 
cleanness. 28 Even so you also outwardly appear 
righteous unto men, but within you are full of 
hypocricy and iniquity. 

*** * *** 

29 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypo- 
crites ! because you build the tombs of the prophets, 
and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous, 30 
and say, ' If we had been in the days of our fathers, 
we would not have been partakers with them in the 
blood of the prophets.' 31 Wherefore you are wit- 
nesses unto yourselves, that you are the children 
of them that killed the prophets. 32 Fill ye up then 
the measure of your fathers. 33 Ye serpents, ye 
generation of vipers, how can you escape the damna- 
tion of hell. 34 Wherefore, behold, I send unto you 
prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some 
of them you shall kill and crucify; and some of 
them shall you scourge in your synagogues, and 
persecute them from city to city: 35 that upon 
you may come all the righteous blood shed upon 
the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto 
the blood of Zacharias the son of Barachias, whom 
you slew between the temple and the altar. 36 
Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come 
upon this generation. 

Chapter 23:23-36 



23:37 The Gospel According to Matthew 65 

Epilogue 

37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the 
prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee, 
how often would I have gathered thy children 
together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens 
under her wings, and you would not! 38 Behold, 
your house is left unto you desolate. 39 For I 
say unto you, You shall not see me henceforth, till 
you shall say, 

* * * 

' Blessed is he that cometh in the name 
of the Lord.' " l 



HI. THE DESTRUCTION OF THE TEMPLE 
The Reply of Jesus to the Disciples 

24:1 And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and 
his disciples came to him for to show him the buildings of the 
temple. 2 And Jesus said unto them, "See ye not all these 
things? Verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one 
stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down." * 



IV. THE GREAT DISCOURSE ON LAST THINGS 
The Seventh Seven-Fold Discourse 

3 And as he sat on the mount of Olives, the disciples came 
unto him privately, saying, "Tell us, when shall these things be? 
and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the 
world?" 4 And Jesus answered and said unto them: 

Prologue 

"Take heed that no man deceive you. 5 For 
many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ, 
and shall deceive many. 6 And you shall hear of 
wars and rumors of wars : see that you are not 
troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but 
the end is not yet. 7 For nation shall rise against 
nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there 
shall be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes, in 
divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of 
sorrow. 9 Then shall they deliver you up to be 
afflicted, and shall kill you: and you shall be hated 



»Ps. 118:26. 

a Jerusalem fell under Titus Sept. 4, A. D. 70. 

Chapter 23:37-24:9 



66 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

of all nations for my name's sake. 10 And then shall 
many be offended, and shall betray one another, 
and shall hate one another. 11 And many false 
prophets shall arise, and shall deceive many. 12 
And because iniquity shall abound, the love of 
many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure 
to the end, the same shall be saved. 14 And this 
gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the 
world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall 
the end come. 

15 When you therefore shall see the abomination 
of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, 
stand in the holy place (whoso readeth let him 
understand), 16 then let them that are in Judaea 
flee into the mountains: 17 let him that is on the 
housetop not come down to take anything out of his 
house : , 18 neither let him that is in the field 
return back to take his clothes. 19 And woe unto 
them that are with child, and to them that give 
such in those days! 20 But pray ye that your 
flight be not in the winter, neither on the sab- 
bath day: 21 for then shall be great tribulation, 
such as was not since the beginning of the world to 
this time, no, nor ever shall be. 22 And except those 
days should be shortened, there should no flesh 
be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall 
be shortened. 

23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here 

is Christ, or, there; believe it not. 24 For there 

shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and 

shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, 

if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. 

25 Behold, I have told you before. 26 Wherefore if 

they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert, 

go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; 

believe it not. 27 For as the lightning cometh out 

of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so 

shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 28 For 

wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be 

gathered together. 

* * * 

29 Immediately after the tribulation of those 
days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall 
not give her light, and the stars shall fall from 

Chapter 24:10-29 



24:30 The Gospel According to Matthew 67 

heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be 
shaken: 30 and then shall appear the sign of the 
Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of 
the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man 
coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great 
glory. 31 And he shall send his angels with a 
great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather 
together his elect from the four winds, from one 
end of heaven to the other. 

32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree: When 
his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, 
you know that summer is nigh : 33 so likewise you, 
when you shall see all these things, know that it 
is near, even at the doors. 34 Verily I say unto 
you, This generation shall not pass, till all these 
things are fulfilled. 35 Heaven and earth shall 
pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 36 
But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not 
the angels of heaven, but my Father only. 

37 But as the days of Noah were, so shall also 
the coming of the Son of man be. 38 For as in the 
days that were before the flood they were eating 
and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, un- 
til the day that Noah entered into the ark, 39 and 
knew not until the flood came, and took them all 
away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man 
be. 40 Then shall two be in the field; the one 
shall be taken, and the other left. 41 Two women 
shall be grinding at the mill ; the one shall be taken, 
and the other left. 42 Watch therefore: for you 
know not what hour your Lord doth come. 43 But 
know this, that if the good man of the house had 
known in what watch the thief would come, he 
would have watched, and would not have suffered 
his house to be broken up. 44 Therefore be ye also 
ready: for in such an hour as you think not the 
Son of man cometh. 45 Who then is a faithful and 
wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over 
his household, to give them meat in due season? 46 
Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he com- 
eth shall find so doing. 47 Verily I say unto you, 
that he shall make him ruler over all his goods. 48 
But if that evil servant shall say in his heart, 
My lord delayeth his coming, 49 and shall begin to 

Chapter 24:30-49 



68 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with 
the drunken, 50 the lord of that servant shall come 
in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an 
hour when he is not aware of, 51 and shall cut him 
asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypo- 
crites : there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 
** ** ** 

25 : 1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened 
unto ten virgins, 1 who took their lamps, and went 
forth to meet the bridegroom. 2 And five of them 
were wise, and five were foolish. 3 They that were 
foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: 
4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their 
lamps. 5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all 
slumbered and slept. 6 And at midnight there was 
a cry made, 'Behold, the bridegroom cometh; 
go ye out to meet him.' 7 Then all those virgins 
arose, and trimmed their lamps. 8 And the foolish 
said unto the wise, 'Give us of your oil: for our 
lamps are gone out.' 9 But the wise answered, say- 
ing, 'Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you; 
but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for your- 
selves.' 10 And while they went to buy, the bride- 
groom came; and they that were ready went in with 
him to the marriage. And the door was shut. 11 
Afterwards came also the other virgins, saying, 
'Lord, Lord, open to us.' 12 But he answered and 
said, 'Verily I say unto you, I know you not.' 13 
Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor 
the hour wherein the Son of man cometh. 

14 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man trav- 
eling into a far country, 2 who called his own ser- 
vants, and delivered unto them his goods. 15 And 
unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and 
to another one; to every man according to his 
several ability; and straightway took his journey. 
16 Then he that had received the five talents went 
and traded with the same, and made them other five 
talents. 17 And likewise he that had received two, 
he also gained other two. 18 But he that had re- 
ceived one went and digged in the earth, and hid 
his lord's money. 19 After a long time the lord of 
those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. 



1 The parable of the Ten Virgins. * The parable of the Talents. 

Chapter 24:50-25:19 



25:20 The Gospel According to Matthew 69 

• 
20 And so he that had received five talents came 
and brought other five talents, saying, 'Lord, thou 
deliveredst unto me five talents; behold, I have 
gained beside them five talents more.' 21 His lord 
said unto him, 'Well done, thou good and faithful 
servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, 
I will make thee ruler over many things: enter 
thou into the joy of thy lord.' 22 He also that had 
received two talents came and said, 'Lord, thou de- 
liveredst unto me two talents : behold, I have gained 
two other talents beside them.' 23 His lord said 
unto him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; 
thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will 
make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into 
the joy of thy lord.' 24 Then he that had received 
the one talent came and said, ' Lord, I knew thee, 
that thou art a hard man, reaping where thou hast 
not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed : 

25 and I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in 
the earth: lo, there thou hast that which is thine.' 

26 His lord answered and said unto him, ' Thou 
wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I 
reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have 
not strawed: 27 thou oughtest therefore to have 
put my money to the exchangers, and then at my 
coming I should have received my own with usury.' 
28 Take therefore the talent from him, and give it 
unto him that hath ten talents. 29 For unto every 
one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abun- 
dance: but from him that hath not shall be taken 
away even that which he hath. 30 And cast ye the 
unprofitable servant into outer darkness : there shall 
be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' 

Epilogue 

31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, 
and all the holy angels with him, then shall he 
sit upon the throne of his glory. 

* 

32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: 
and he shall separate them one from another, as a 
shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats : 33 and 
he shall set the sheep on the right hand, and the 
goats on the left. * 

34 Then shall the king say 1 unto them on his 



1 The seven-fold reward and penalty. 

Chapter 25:20-34 



70 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

right hand: Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit 
the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation 
of the world: 35 for I was hungry, and you gave 
me meat; I was thirsty, and you gave me drink; 
I was a stranger, and you took me in; 36 naked, 
and you clothed me; I was sick, and you visited 
me; I was in prison, and you came unto me. 

* 

37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, 
Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed thee? or 
thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38 when saw we thee 
a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed 
thee? 39 or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, 
and came unto thee ? 40 And the king shall answer 
and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch 
as you have done it unto one of the least of these my 
brethren, you have done it unto me. 

* 

41 Then shall he say unto them on the left hand: 
Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, 
prepared for the devil and his angels ; 42 for I 
was hungry, and you gave me no meat; I was 
thirsty, and you gave me no drink; 43 I was a 
stranger, and you took me not in; naked, and you 
clothed me not ; sick, and in prison, and you visited 
me not. * 

44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, 
when saw we thee an hungered, or athirst, or a 
stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did 
not minister unto thee? 45 Then shall he answer 
them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as 
you did it not unto one of the least of these, you 

did it not unto me. 

* 

46 And these shall go away into everlasting pun- 
ishment; but the righteous into life eternal. 



She Sixth Summary 

26:1 And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these 
sayings, he said unto his disciples, 2 "You know that after 
two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed 
to be crucified. 



Part gfi»n 
The Crucifixion 1 and Resurrection 



§1. THE APPROACHING PASSOVER FEAST 

I. THE ACTION OF THE SANHEDRIN 

The Death-Plot Against Jesus 

Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, 
and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, 
who was called Caiaphas, 4 and consulted that they might take 
him by subtilty, and kill him. 5 But they said, "Not on the 
feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people." 



H. THE ANOINTING OF JESUS AT BETHANY 
The Box of Precious Ointment 

6 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the 
leper, 7 there came unto him a woman having an alabaster 
box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head as he 
sat at meat. 8 But when his disciples saw it, they were indig- 
nant, saying, "To what purpose is this waste? 9 For this oint- 
ment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor." 
10 When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, "Why trouble 
ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me. 11 
For you have the poor always with you; but me you have not 
always. 12 For in that she hath poured this ointment on my 
body, she did it for my burial. 13 Verily I say unto you, Where- 
soever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there 
shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial 
of her." 



m. THE CONSPIRACY OF JUDAS ISCARIOT 
The Covenant for Thirty Pieces of Silver 

14 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto 
the chief priests, 15 and said unto them, "What will you give 

1 The priestly sacrifice of the Messiah for the sins of the world. 

71 Chapter 26:3-15 



72 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

me, and I will deliver him unto you?" And they covenanted 
with him for thirty pieces of silver. 16 And from that time 
he sought opportunity to betray him. 



§2. THE OBSERVANCE OF THE PASSOVER FEAST 

I. THE PREPARATION OF THE DISCIPLES 

The Appointed House in Jerusalem 

17 Now on the first day of the feast of unleavened bread the 
disciples came to Jesus saying unto him, "Where wilt thou that 
we prepare for thee to eat the passover?" 18 And he said, "Go 
into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The Master saith, 
My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with 
my disciples." 19 And the disciples did as Jesus appointed them; 
and they made ready the passover. 



H. THE DISCLOSURE OF THE BETRAYAL 

The Exposure of Judas Iscariot 

20 Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve. 
21 And as they did eat, he said, "Verily I say unto you, that one 
of you shall betray me." 22 And they were exceeding sorrow- 
ful, and began every one of them to say unto him, "Lord, is it I?" 
23 And he answered and said, "He that dippeth his hand with me 
in the dish, the same shall betray me. 24 The Son of man goeth 
as it is written of him; but woe unto that man by whom the Son 
of man is betrayed ! It had been good for that man if he had not 
been born." 25 Then Judas, who betrayed him, answered and 
said, "Master, is it I?" He said unto him, "Thou hast said." 



m. THE INSTITUTION OF THE HOLY COMMUNION 

The Blood Shed for the Remission of Sins 

26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, 
and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; 
this is my body." 27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, 
and gave it to them, saying, "Drink ye all of it; 28 for this is 
my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the 
remission of sins. 29 But I say unto you, I will not drink hence- 
forth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new 
with you in my Father's kingdom." 30 And when they had sung 
a hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives. 

Chapter 26:16-30 



26:31 The Gospel According to Matthew 73 

IV. THE FORECAST OF PETER'S DENIAL 
The Appointment to Meet Jesus after the Resurrection 

31 Then said Jesus unto them, "All ye shall be offended be- 
cause of me this night : for it is written : 

* * * 

' I will smite the shepherd, 
And the sheep of the flock shall be 
scattered abroad.' 1 

32 But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee." 

33 Peter answered and said unto him, "Though all men shall 
be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended." 34 
Jesus said unto him, "Verily I say unto thee, that this night, 
before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice." 35 Peter 
said unto him, "Though I should die with thee, yet will I not 
deny thee." Likewise also said all the disciples. 



§3. THE ARREST AND TRIAL OF JESUS 

I. THE AGONY IN THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE 

The Weariness of the Disciples in the Garden 

36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Geth- 
semane, and saith unto the disciples, "Sit ye here, while I go and 
pray yonder." 37 And he took with him Peter and the two 
sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. 38 
Then saith he unto them, "My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even 
unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me." 39 And he went 
a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, "O my 
Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless 
not as I will, but as thou wilt." 40 And he cometh unto the 
disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, "What, 
could you not watch with me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, 
that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, 
but the flesh is weak." 42 He went away again the second time, 
and prayed, saying. " O my Father, if this cup may not pass away 
from me, except I drink it, thy will be done." 43 And he came 
and found them asleep again : for their eyes were heavy. 44 And 
he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, 
saying the same words. 45 Then cometh he to his disciples, 
and saith unto them, "Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, 
the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the 
hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand 
that doth betray me." 

1 Zech. 13:7. 

Chapter 26:31-46 



74 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

H. THE BETRAYAL AND ARREST OF JESUS 
The Fifth Fulfilment of Prophecy 

47 And while he yet spoke, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, 
and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the 
chief priests and the elders of the people. 48 Now he that be- 
trayed him gave them a sign, saying, "Whomsoever I shall kiss, 
the same is he: hold him fast." 49 And forthwith he came to 
Jesus, and said, "Hail, Master;" and kissed him. 50 And Jesus 
said unto him, "Friend, wherefore art thou come?" Then came 
they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him. 51 And, behold, 
one of them that was with Jesus stretched out his hand, and 
drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest's, and smote 
off his ear. 52 Then said Jesus unto him, "Put up again thy 
sword into its place: for all they that take the sword shall perish 
with the sword. 53 Thinkest thou that I can not now pray my 
Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions 
of angels? 54 But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, 
that thus it must be?" 55 In that same hour said Jesus to the 
multitudes, "Are you come out as against a thief with swords and 
staves to take me? I sat daily teaching with you in the temple, 
and you laid no hand on me." 56 But all this was done, that the 
scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the dis- 
ciples forsook him and fled. 



HI. THE TRIAL OF JESUS BY THE SANHEDRIN 
a. The Sentence of Jesus to Death 

57 And they that laid hands on Jesus led him away toCaiaphas 
the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assem- 
bled. 58 But Peter followed him afar unto the high priest's 
palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end. 
59 Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought 
false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; 60 but found 
none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they 
none. At the last came two false witnesses, 61 and said, "This 
fellow said, " I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build 
it in three days." 62 And the high priest arose, and said unto 
him, "Answerest thou nothing? what is it that these witness 
against thee?" 63 But Jesus held his peace. And the high 
priest answered, and said unto him, "I adjure thee by the living 
God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of 
God." 64 Jesus saith unto him, "Thou hast said: nevertheless 
I say unto you, Hereafter shall you see the Son of man sitting 
on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven." 

Chapter 26:47-64 



26:65 The Gospel According to Matthew 75 

65 Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, "He hath spoken 
blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold now 
you have heard his blasphemy. 66 What think ye?" They 
answered and said, "He is worthy of death." 67 Then did they 
spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the 
palms of their hands, 68 saying, "Prophesy unto us, thou 
Christ, Who is he that smote thee?" 



b. The Unfaithfulness and Sorrow of Peter 

69 Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came 
unto him, saying, "Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee." 70 
But he denied before them all, saying, "I know not what thou 
say est." 71 And when he was gone out into the porch, another 
maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, " This fellow 
was also with Jesus of Nazareth." 72 And again he denied with 
an oath, "I do not know the man." 73 And after a while came 
unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, "Surely thou 
also art one of them; for thy speech betrayeth thee." 74 Then 
began he to curse and to swear, saying, "I know not the man." 
And immediately the cock crew. 75 And Peter remembered 
the word of Jesus, who said unto him, "Before the cock crow, 
thou shalt deny me thrice." And he went out and wept bitterly. 



IV. THE TRIAL BEFORE THE ROMAN COURT 
a. The Transfer of Jesus to the Governor 

27 : 1 When the morning was come, all the chief priests and 
elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death : 
2 and when they had bound him, they led him away, and de- 
livered him to Pontius Pilate the governor. 1 



b. The Remorse and Suicide of Judas 

3 Then Judas, who had betrayed him, when he saw that he 
was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty 
pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, 4 saying, " I have 
sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood." And they 
said, "What is that to us? see thou to that." 5 And he cast down 
the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and 
hanged himself. 6 And the chief priests took the silver pieces, 
and said, "It is not lawful to put them into the treasury, because 
it is the price of blood." 7 And they took counsel, and bought 

1 The Roman Governor of Judaea. 

Chapter 26:65-27:7 



76 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in. 8 Where- 
fore that field was called, "The field of blood," unto this day. 
9 Then was fulfilled 1 that which was spoken by Jeremiah the 

prophet, saying: 

* * * 

"And they took the thirty pieces of silver, 
The price of him that was valued, 
Whom they of the children of Israel did value ; 
10 And gave them for the potter's field, 
As the Lord appointed me." 2 



c. The Approval of the Roman Governor 

11 And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor 
asked him, saying, "Art thou the king of the Jews?" And Jesus 
said unto him, "Thou sayest." 12 And when he was accused 
by the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. 13 Then 
said Pilate unto him, "Hearest thou not how many things they 
witness against thee?" 14 And he answered them to never a 
word; insomuch that the governor marveled greatly. 15 Now 
at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a 
prisoner, whom they would. 16 And they had then a notable 
prisoner, called Barabbas. 17 Therefore when they were gath- 
ered together, Pilate said unto them, "Whom will ye that I 
release unto you? Barabbas or Jesus who is called Christ?" 18 
For he knew that for envy they had delivered him. 19 When 
he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, 
saying, "Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have 
suffered many things this day in a dream because of him." 20 
But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that 
they should ask for Barabbas, and destroy Jesus. 21 The 
governor answered and said unto them, "Which of the twain 
will you that I release unto you?" They said, "Barabbas." 22 
Pilate saith unto them, "What shall I do then with Jesus who is 
called Christ?" They all say unto him, "Let him be crucified." 

23 And the governor said, "Why, what evil hath he done?" 
But they cried out the more, saying, "Let him be crucified." 

24 When Pilate saw that he prevailed nothing, but that rather a 
tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before 
the multitude, saying, "I am innocent of the blood of this just 
person: see ye to it." 25 Then answered all the people, and said, 
"His blood be on us, and on our children." 26 Then released 
he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he 
delivered him to be crucified. 



1 The Sixth Fulfilment of Prophecy. 
*Zech. ll:12f. 

Chapter 27:8-26 



27:27 The Gospel According to Matthew 77 

§4. THE CRUCIFIXION AND RESURRECTION 

I. THE MOCKING OF JESUS BY THE SOLDIERS 
The Way from the Praetorium to Golgotha 

27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the com- 
mon hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers. 28 
And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe. 29 And 
when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his 
head, and a reed in his right hand : and they bowed the knee be- 
fore him, and mocked him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!" 30 
And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the 
head. 31 And after they had mocked him, they took the robe off 
of him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to 
crucify him, 32 And as they came out, they found a man of 
Cyrene, 1 Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross. 



H. THE CRUCIFIXION OF JESUS AT GOLGOTHA 
a. The Seventh Fulfilment of Prophecy 

33 And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, 1 

that is to say, The place of a skull, 34 they gave him vinegar 

to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he 

would not drink. 35 And they crucified him, and parted his 

garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled that was spoken 

by the prophet: 

* * * 

"They parted my garments among them, 
And upon my vesture did they cast lots."' 
* 

36 And sitting down they watched him there; 37 and set up 
over his head his accusation 4 written, "THIS IS JESUS THE 
KING OF THE JEWS." 38 Then were there two thieves 
crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the 
left. 39 And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their 
heads, 40 and saying, "Thou that destroyest the temple, and 
buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, 
come down from the cross." 41 Likewise also the chief priests, 
mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said, 42 "He saved 
others; himself he cannot save. If he be the king of Israel, let 
him come down from the cross and we will believe him. 43 He 
trusted in God; let him deliver him, now if he will have him: 



1 Cyrene — in Africa. 

• The Latin equivalent of Golgotha is Calvary. 8 Ps. 22:18. 

4 The charge under which Pilate permitted Jesus to be found guilty and 
crucified. 

Chapter 27:27-43 



78 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

for he said, 'I am the Son of God.' " 44 The thieves also that 
were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth. 



b. The Death of Jesus on the Cross 

45 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the 
land until the ninth hour, 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus 
cried with a loud voice, saying, "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?" 
(that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?) 
47 Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, 
"This man calleth for Elijah." 48 And straightway one of them 
ran, and took a sponge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on 
a reed, and gave him to drink. 49 The rest said, "Let be, let 
us see whether Elijah will come to save him?'' 50 And Jesus, 
when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. 

51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the 
top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; 

52 and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints 
that slept arose, 53 and came out of their graves after his resur- 
rection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. 

54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watch- 
ing Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, 
they feared greatly, saying, "Truly this was the Son of God." 

55 And many women were there beholding afar off, who fol- 
lowed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him: 56 among whom 
were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph 
and the mother of Zebedee's children. 



HI. THE BURIAL OF JESUS 
a. The New Tomb of Joseph of Arimathsea 

57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arima- 
thsea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple: 58 
he went to Pilate and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate 
commanded the body to be delivered. 59 And when Joseph 
had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and 
laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: 
and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and de- 
parted. 61 And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other 
Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre. 



b. The Seal and Guard for the Tomb 

62 Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, 
the chief priests and the Pharisees came together unto Pilate, 
63 saying, "Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he 

Chapter 27:44-63 



27:64 The Gospel According to Matthew 79 

was yet alive, 'After three days I will rise again.' 64 Command 
therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, 
lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say 
unto the people, He is risen from the dead : so the last error shall 
be worse than the first." 65 Pilate said unto them, "You have 
a watch: go your way, make it as sure as you can." 66 So they 
went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting 
a watch. 

IV. THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS 
a. The Announcement to the Women at the Sepulchre 

28 : 1 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the 
first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary 
to see the sepulchre. 2 And behold there was a great earth- 
quake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and 
came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. 
3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as 
snow: 4 and for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became 
as dead men. 5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, 
"Fear not ye: for I know that you seek Jesus, who was crucified. 
6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place 
where the Lord lay. 7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples 
that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you 
into Galilee; there shall you see him: lo, I have told you." 8 And 
they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; 
and did run to bring his disciples word. 



b. The Meeting of Jesus with the Women 

9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met 
them, saying, "All hail!" And they came and held him by the 
feet, and worshipped him. 10 Then said Jesus unto them, "Be 
not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and 
there shall they see me." 

c. The Chief Priests and the Watch 

11 Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came 
into the city, and showed unto the chief priests all the things 
that were done. 12 And when they were assembled with the 
elders and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the 
soldiers, 13 saying, "Say ye, his disciples came by night and 
stole him away while ye slept. 14 And if this come to the gover- 
nor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you." 15 So they 
took the money, and did as they were taught : and this saying is 
commonly reported among the Jews until this day. l 

1 About A. D. 70, forty years after the death of Jesus. 

Chapter 27:64-28:15 



Kpilop* 



THE MEETING WITH JESUS IN GALILEE 

THE SEVEN-FOLD COMMISSION FOR THE APOSTLES 

The Gospel of Christ for the Nations of the World 



She Clnsing Summary 

16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a 
mountain where Jesus had appointed them. 17 And when they 
saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. 18 And 
Jesus came and spoke unto them, saying: 

* * * 

"All power is given unto me in heaven and in 

earth. 

* 

19 Go ye therefore and teach all nations, 
Baptizing them in the name of the Father, 

And of the Son, 

* 

And of the Holy Spirit : 

* 

20 Teaching them to observe all things whatso- 
ever I have commanded you : 

* 

And lo, I am with you always, even unto the 
end of the world. Amen." 

* * * 

* * 
* 



80 



The Gospel 
According to Mark 



% (J&ronirl* 1 

The Gospel of Jesus Christ 
the Son of God 



THE BEGINNING OF THE GOSPEL 

THE MANIFESTATION OF THE MESSIAH 
The Preaching of John the Baptist 

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 
2 As it is written in the prophets, 

* * * 

"Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, 

Who shall prepare thy way before thee. 
3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, 
Prepare ye the way of the Lord, 
Make his paths straight," 2 
* 

4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of 
repentance for the remission of sins. 5 And there went out unto 
him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all 
baptized of him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. 6 And 
John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin 
about his loins ; and he did eat locusts and wild honey ; 7 and 
preached, saying, "There cometh one mightier than I after me, 
the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and un- 
loose. 8 I indeed have baptized you with water; but he shall 
baptize you with the Holy Spirit." 



The Appearance and Baptism of Jesus 

9 And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from 
Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. 10 And 
straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens 
opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him : 1 1 and 
there came a voice from heaven, saying, "Thou art my beloved 
Son, in whom I am well pleased." 

1 Written at Rome, A. D., about 65-70, by John Mark of Jerusalem, the 
interpreter of Peter : a simple chronicle of the glad tidings, written, says Papias, 
from recollections of Peter's preaching. 

2 Mai. 3:1. 

83 Chapter 1:1-11 



84 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

The Great Temptation of Jesus 

12 And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness. 
13 And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of 
Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered 
unto him. 



THE MINISTRY OF JESUS IN GALILEE 
The Public Announcement of the Kingdom of God 

14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into 
Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, 15 and 
saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: 
repent ye, and believe the gospel." 



The Call of the Four Disciples 

16 Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and 
Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were 
fishers. 17 And Jesus said unto them, "Come ye after me, and 
I will make you to become fishers of men. 18 And straightway 
they forsook their nets, and followed him. 19 And when he had 
gone a little farther thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, 
and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their 
nets. 20 And straightway he called them: and they left their 
father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after 
him. 



The Ministry in the Synagogue 

21 And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the 
sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught. 22 And 
they were astonished at his doctrine; for he taught them as one 
that had authority, and not as the scribes. 

* 

23 And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean 
spirit; and he cried out, 24 saying, "Let us alone; what have 
we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to 
destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God." 
25 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Hold thy peace, and come 
out of him." 26 And when the unclean spirit had torn him, 
and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him. 

* 

27 And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned 
among themselves, saying, "What thing is this? what new doc- 

Chapter 1:12-27 



The Gospel According to Mark 85 

trine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean 
spirits, and they do obey him." 28 And his fame spread abroad 
throughout all the region round about Galilee. 



The Healing of Simon's Wife's Mother 

29 And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, 
they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James 
and John. 30 But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, 
and anon they tell him of her. 31 And he came and took her 
by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left 
her, and she ministered unto them. 



The Healing of the Multitude 

32 And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him 
all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils. 
33 And all the city was gathered together at the door. 34 And 
he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out 
many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they 
knew him. 



THE PREACHING TOUR THROUGH GALILEE 
The Place of Prayer and the Disciples 

35 And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, 
he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. 

36 And Simon and they that were with him followed after him. 

37 And when they had found him, they said unto him, "All men 
seek for thee." 38 And he said unto them, "Let us go into the 
next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I 
forth." 39 And he preached in their synagogues throughout 
all Galilee, and cast out devils. 



The Healing of a Leper 

40 And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling 
down to him, and saying unto him, "If thou wilt, thou canst make 
me clean." 41 And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth 
his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, "I will; be thou 
clean." 42 And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the 
leprousy departed from him, and he was cleansed. 43 And he 
straitly charged him, and forthwith sent him away; 44 and saith 
unto him, "See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, 
show thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things 

Chapter 1:28-44 



86 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. 45 But he 
went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the 
matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into 
the city, but was without in desert places : and they came to him 
from every quarter. 

THE CRITICISM OF THE JEWISH AUTHORITIES 
The Palsied Man Forgiven and Healed 

2:1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; 
and it was noised that he was in the house. 2 And straightway 
many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room 
to receive them, no, not so much as about the door : and he preached 
the word unto them. * 

3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, 
who was borne of four. 4 And when they could not come nigh 
unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: 
and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein 
the sick of the palsy lay. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he 
said unto the sick of the palsy, "Son, thy sins be forgiven thee." 
6 But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reason- 
ing in their hearts, 7 "Why doth this man thus speak blas- 
phemies? who can forgive sins but God only?" 8 And immedi- 
ately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned 
within themselves, he said unto them, "Why reason ye these 
things in your hearts? 9 Which is it easier to say to the sick of 
the palsy, 'Thy sins be forgiven thee;' or to say, Arise, and take 
up thy bed, and walk? 10 But that you may know that the Son 
of man hath power on earth to fogive sins (he saith to the sick 
of the palsy), 111 say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, 
and go thy way into thy house." 12 And immediately he arose, 
took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that 
they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, "We never saw 
it on this fashion." 

The Call of Levi the Publican 

13 And he went forth again by the sea side; and all the multi- 
tude resorted unto him, and he taught them. 

* 

14 And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphasus sit- 
ting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, "Follow me." 
And he arose and followed him. 

* 

15 And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his house, 
many publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and his 

Chapter 1:45-2:15 



The Gospel According to Mark 87 

disciples: for there were many, and they followed him. 16 And 

when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and 

sinners, they said unto his disciples, "How is it that he eateth and 

drinketh with publicans and sinners?" 17 When Jesus heard it, 

he saith unto them, "They that are whole have no need of the 

physician, but they that are sick : I came not to call the righteous, 

but sinners to repentance." 

* 

18 And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees used to 
fast: and they come and say unto him, "Why do the disciples of 
John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not?" 19 
And Jesus said unto them, "Can the children of the bridechamber 
fast, while the bridegroom is with them? as long as they have the 
bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. 20 But the days will 
come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and 
then shall they fast in those days. 21 No man also seweth a 
piece of new cloth on an old garment: else the new piece that 
filleth it up taketh away from the old, and the rent is made worse. 
22 And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new 
wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the 
bottles will be marred : but new wine must be put into new bottles." 



The Plucking of Corn on the Sabbath 

23 And it came to pass, that he went through the corn fields 
on the sabbath day; and his disciples began, as they went, to 
pluck the ears of corn. 24 And the Pharisees said unto him, 
"Behold, why do they on the sabbath day that which is not 
lawful?" 25 And he said unto them, "Have you never read what 
David did, when he had need, and was hungry, he, and they that 
were with him? 26 how he went into the house of God in the 
days of Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the shewbread, 
which is not lawful to eat, but for the priests, and gave also to 
them that were with him?" 27 And he said unto them, "The 
sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: 28 
therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath." 



The Healing of a Man with a Withered Hand 

3 : 1 And he entered again into the synagogue ; and there was 
a man there that had a withered hand. 2 And they watched him 
whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might 
accuse him. 3 And he saith unto the man that had the withered 
hand, "Stand forth." 4 And he saith unto them, "Is it lawful 
to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to 
kill?" But they held their peace. 5 And when he had looked 

Chapter 2:16-3:5 



88 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hard- 
ness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, "Stretch forth thine 
hand." And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole 

as the other. 

* 

6 And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took counsel 
with the Herodians against him, how they might destroy him. 



THE FAME OF JESUS THROUGHOUT SYRIA 
The Recognition of the Christ 

7 But Jesus withdrew himself with his disciples to the 
sea: and a great multitude from Galilee followed him, and 
from Judaea, 8 and from Jerusalem, and from Idumaea, and 
from beyond Jordan; and they about Tyre and Sidon, a great 
multitude, when they had heard what great things he did, came 
unto him. 9 And he spoke to his disciples, that a small ship 
should wait on him because of the multitude, lest they should 
throng him. 10 For he had healed many; insomuch that they 
pressed upon him for to touch him, as many as had plagues. 11 
And unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, 
and cried, saying, "Thou art the Son of God." 12 And he 
straitly charged them that they should not make him known. 



THE ORGANIZATION OF THE BODY OF APOSTLES 
The Call and Ordination of the Twelve 

13 And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him 
whom he would: and they came unto him. 14 And he ordained 
twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send 
them forth to preach, 15 and to have power to heal sicknesses, 
and to cast out devils: 16 and Simon he surnamed Peter; 17 
and James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; 
and he surnamed them Boanerges, that is, The sons of thunder: 
18 and Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, 
and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and 
Simon the Canaanite, 19 And Judas Iscariot [who also betrayed 
him]. 



THE SCRIBES FROM JERUSALEM IN GALILEE 
The Interference of Jesus Friends 

And they went into a house. 20 And the multitude cometh 
together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread. 21 

Chapter 3:6-21 



The Gospel According to Mark 89 

and when his friends heard of it, they went out to lay hold on 
him: for they said, "He is beside himself." 



The Sin Against the Holy Spirit 

22 And the scribes that came down from Jerusalem said, "He 
hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out 
devils." 23 And he called them unto him, and said unto them in 
parables, "How can Satan cast out Satan? 24 And if a king- 
dom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25 
And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 
26 And if Satan rise up against himself, and be divided, he can- 
not stand, but hath an end. 27 No man can enter into a strong 
man's house, and spoil his goods, except he will first bind the 
strong man; and then he will spoil his house. 28 Verily I say 
unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and 
blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme: 29 but 
he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Spirit hath never for- 
giveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation:" 30 because 
they said, "He hath an unclean spirit." 



The True Kindred of Jesus 

31 There came then his brothers and his mother, and, stand- 
ing without, sent unto him, calling him. 32 And the multitude 
sat about him, and they said unto him, "Behold thy mother 
and thy brothers without seek for thee." S3 And he answered 
them, saying, "Who is my mother, or my brothers?" 34 And 
he looked round about on them that sat about him, and said, 
"Behold my mother and my brothers! 35 For whosoever shall 
do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and 
mother." 



The Teaching of Jesus by Parables 

4 : 1 And he began again to teach by the sea side : and there 

was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into 

a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the 

sea on the land. 

* 

2 And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto 
them in his doctrine, 3 "Hearken: Behold, there went out 
a sower to sow; 4 and it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell 
by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it 
up. 5 And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much 

Chapter 3:22-4:5 



90 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth 
of earth: 6 but when the sun was up, it was scorched; and be- 
cause it had no root, it withered away. 7 And some fell among 
thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded 
no fruit. 8 And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit 
that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, 
and some sixty, and some a hundred." 9 And he said unto them, 
"He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." 

* 

10 And when he was alone, they that were about him with the 
twelve asked of him the parable. 11 And he said unto them, 
"Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of 
God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done 
in parables: 12 that seeing they may see, and not perceive; 
and hearing, they may hear, and not understand; lest at any 
time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven 
them." 13 And he said unto them, "Know you not this par- 
able? and how then will you know all parables? 14 The sower 
soweth the word. 15 And these are they by the way side, where 
the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh im- 
mediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their 
hearts. 16 And these are they likewise that are sown on stony 
ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive 
it with gladness; 17 and have no root in themselves, and so 
endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution 
ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. 18 
and these are they that are sown among thorns; such as hear the 
word, 19 and the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of 
riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, 
and it becometh unfruitful. 20 And these are they that are 
sown on good ground ; such as hear the word, and receive it, and 
bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hun- 
dred." * 

21 And he said unto them, "Is a candle brought to be put 
under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candle- 
stick? 22 For there is nothing hid, that shall not be manifested; 
neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. 
23 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear." 24 And he said 
unto them, "Take heed what you hear: with what measure you 
mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall 
more be given. 25 For he that hath, to him shall be given: and 
he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he 
hath." * 

26 And he said, "So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should 
cast seed into the ground; 27 and should sleep, and rise night 

Chapter 4:6-27 



The Gospel According to Mark 91 

and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth 
not how. 28 For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first 
the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. 29 
But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in 
the sickle, because the harvest is come." 

* 

30 And he said, "Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of 
God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? 31 It is 
like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, 
is less than all the seeds that are in the earth: 32 but when 
it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, 
and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air 
may lodge under the shadow of it." 

* 

33 And with many such parables spoke he the word unto them, 
as they were able to hear it. 34 But without a parable spoke 
he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all 
things to his disciples. 



THE DEPARTURE INTO GADARA 
The Stilling of the Storm on the Sea of Galilee 

35 And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto 
them, "Let us pass over unto the other side." 36 And when 
they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he 
was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. 
37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat 
into the ship, so that it was now full. 38 And he was in the 
hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake 
him, and say unto him, "Master, carest thou not that we 
perish?" 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said 
unto the sea, "Peace, be still." And the wind ceased, and there 
was a great calm. 40 And he said unto them, "Why are you 
so fearful ? how is it that you have no faith ? " 41 And they feared 
exceedingly, and said one to another, "What manner of man is 
this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" 



The Ministry to the Gadarenes 

5 : 1 And they came over unto the other side of the sea, in- 
to the country of the Gadarenes. 2 And when he was come out 
of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man 
with an unclean spirit, 3 who had his dwelling among the 
tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains: 4 
because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, 

Chapter 4:28-5:4 



92 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fet- 
ters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. 5 And 
always night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, 
crying, and cutting himself with stones. 6 But when he saw 
Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him, 7 and cried with a 
loud voice, and said, "What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou 
Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God that thou tor- 
ment me not." 8 For he said unto him, "Come out of the man, 
thou unclean spirit." 9 And he asked him, "What is thy name?" 
And he answered, saying, "My name is Legion: for we are many." 
10 And he besought him much that he would not send them away 
out of the country. 11 Now there was nigh unto the mountains 
a great herd of swine feeding. 12 And all the devils besought 
him, saying, "Send us into the swine, that we may enter into 
them." 13 And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the un- 
clean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd 
ran violently down a steep place into the sea [they were about 
two thousand]; and were choked in the sea. 14 And they that 
fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. 
And they went out to see what it was that was done. 15 And 
they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the 
devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right 
mind: and they were afraid. 16 And they that saw it told 
them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and 
also concerning the swine. 17 And they began to pray him to 
depart out of their coasts. 18 And when he was come into the 
ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that 
he might be with him. 19 Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, 
but saith unto him, "Go home to thy friends, and tell them how 
great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had com- 
passion on thee." 20 And he departed, and began to publish 
in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all 
men did marvel. 



THE RETURN INTO GALILEE 
The Ruler's Daughter and the Infirm Woman 

21 And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the 

other side, many people gathered unto him : and he was nigh unto 

the sea. 

* 

22 And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the syna- 
gogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, 
23 and besought him greatly, saying, "My little daughter lieth 
at the point of death : I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, 
that she may be healed; and she shall live." 24 And Jesus 

Chapter 5:5-24 



The Gospel According to Mark 93 

went with him; and many people followed him, and thronged 
him. * 

25 And a certain woman, who had an issue of blood twelve 
years, 26 and had suffered many things of many physicians, and 
had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather 
grew worse, 27 when she had heard of Jesus, came in the press 
behind, and touched his garment. 28 For she said, "If I may 
touch but his clothes, I shall be whole." 29 And straightway the 
fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that 
she was healed of that plague. 30 And Jesus immediately 
knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him- 
self about in the press, and said, "Who touched my clothes?" 
31 And his disciples said unto him, "Thou seest the multitude 
thronging thee, and say est thou, "Who touched me?" 32 And 
he looked round about to see her that had done this thing. 33 
But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in 
her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. 
34 And he said unto her, "Daughter, thy faith hath made thee 
whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague." 

* 

35 While he yet spoke, there came from the ruler of the syna- 
gogue's house certain that said, "Thy daughter is dead: why troub- 
lest thou the Master any further?" 36 As soon as Jesus heard 
the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the syna- 
gogue, "Be not afraid, only believe." 37 And he suffered no 
man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother 
of James. 38 And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the 
synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed 
greatly. 39 And when he was come in, he saith unto them, 
"Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but 
sleepeth." 40 And they laughed him to scorn. But when he 
had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of 
the damsel, and them that were with him, and entered in where 
the damsel was lying. 41 And he took the damsel by the hand, 
and said unto her, "Talitha cumi;" which is, being interpreted, 
Damsel, I say unto thee, arise. 42 And straightway the damsel 
arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And 
they were astonished with a great astonishment. 43 And he 
charged them straitly that no man should know it; and com- 
manded that something should be given her to eat. 



THE MINISTRY THROUGH GALILEE 
The Rejection at Nazareth 

6 : 1 And he went out from thence, and came into his own 
country; and his disciples follow him. 2 And when the sab- 

Chapter 5:25-6:2 



94 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

bath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and 
many hearing him were astonished, saying, "From whence hath 
this man these things? and what wisdom is this that is given 
unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands? 
3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, 
and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here 
with us?" And they were offended at him. 4 But Jesus said 
unto them, "A prophet is not without honour, but in his own 
country, and among his own kin, and in his own house." 5 
And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his 
hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. 6 And he mar- 
velled because of their unbelief. 



The Mission of the Apostles 

And he went round about the villages, teaching. 7 And he 
called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by 
two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; 8 and 
commanded them that they should take nothing for their jour- 
ney, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse: 
9 but be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats. 10 And 
he said unto them, "In what place soever you enter into a house, 
there abide until you depart from that place. 11 And whosoever 
shall not receive you, nor hear you, when you depart thence, 
shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. 
Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and 
Gomorrha in the day of judgment than for that city." 12 And 
they went out, and preached that men should repent. 13 And 
they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were 
sick, and healed them. 



The Alarm of King Herod 

14 And king Herod heard of him [for his name was spread 

abroad] : and he said, That John the Baptist was risen from the 

dead, and therefore mighty works do show forth themselves in 

him. 15 Others said, That it is Elijah. And others said, That it 

is a prophet, or as one of the prophets. 16 But when Herod heard 

thereof, he said, "It is John, whom I beheaded; he is risen from 

the dead." 

* 

17 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, 
and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's 
wife: for he had married her. 18 For John had said unto Herod, 
"It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife." 19 There- 
fore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and would have killed 

Chapter 6:3-19 



The Gospel According to Mark 95 

him; but she could not: 20 for Herod feared John, knowing 
that he was a just and holy man, and observed him; and when 
he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly. 

* 

21 And when a convenient day was come, Herod on his birth- 
day made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief estates 
of Galilee; 22 and when the daughter of the said Herodias 
came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat with 
him, the king said unto the damsel, "Ask of me whatsoever thou 
wilt, and I will give it thee." 23 And he sware unto her, "What- 
soever thou shalt ask of me, I will give it thee, unto the half of 
my kingdom." 24 And she went forth, and said unto her mother, 
"What shall I ask?" And she said, "The head of John the Baptist." 
25 And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and 
asked, saying, "I will that thou give me by and by in a charger 
the head of John the Baptist." 26 And the king was exceeding 
sorry; yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes that sat with him, 
he would not reject her. 27 And immediately the king sent 
an executioner, and commanded his head to be brought: and 
he went and beheaded him in prison, 28 and brought his head 
in a charger, and gave it to the damsel: and the damsel gave it 

to her mother. 

* 

29 And when his disciples heard of it, they came and took up 
his corpse, and laid it in a tomb. 



THE RETIREMENT OF JESUS ACROSS THE LAKE 
The Feeding of the Five Thousand 

30 And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, 
and told him all things, both what they had done, and what 
they had taught. 31 And he said unto them, "Come ye your- 
selves apart into a desert place, and rest awhile:" for there were 
many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to 
eat. 32 And they departed into a desert place by ship pri- 
vately. 33 And the people saw them departing, and many 
knew him, and ran afoot thither out of all cities, and outwent 
them and came together unto him. 34 And Jesus, when he came 
out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward 
them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he 
began to teach them many things. 

* 

35 And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came 
unto him, and said, "This is a desert place, and now the time 
is far passed: 36 send them away, that they may go into the 

Chapter 6:20-36 



96 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves 
bread: for they have nothing to eat." 37 He answered and 
said unto them, "Give ye them to eat." And they say unto him, 
"Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and 
give them to eat?" 38 He saith unto them, "How many loaves 
have you? go and see." And when they knew, they say, "Five, 
and two fishes." 39 And he commanded them to make all sit 
down by companies upon the green grass. 40 And they sat 
down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. 41 And when he 
had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to 
heaven, and blessed, and broke the loaves, and gave them to his 
disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among 
them all. 42 And they did all eat, and were filled. 43 And 
they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the 
fishes. 44 And they that did eat of the loaves were about five 
thousand men. 

The Walking of Jesus on the Water 

45 And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into 
the ship, and go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while 
he sent away the people. 46 And when he had sent them away, 
he departed into a mountain to pray. 

* 

47 And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the 
sea, and he alone on the land. 48 And he saw them toiling in 
rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the 
fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the 
sea, and would have passed by them. 49 But when they saw 
him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, 
and cried out: 50 for they all saw him, and were troubled. 
And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, 
"Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid." 51 And he went up 
unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were 
sore amazed in themselves beyond meavSure, and wondered. 
52 For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their 
heart was hardened. * 

53 And when they had passed over, they came into the land 
of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore. 54 And when they were 
come out of the ship, straightway they knew him, 55 and ran 
through that whole region round about, and began to carry 
about in beds those that were sick, where they heard he was. 56 
And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, 
they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that they might 
touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as 
touched him were made whole. 

Chapter 6:37-56 



The Gospel According to Mark 97 

THE TRADITION OF THE ELDERS 
The Pharisees and Scribes from Jerusalem 

7 : 1 Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain 
of the scribes, who came from Jerusalem. 2 And when they 
saw some of his disciples eat bread with denied, that is to say, 
with unwashed hands, they found fault. 3 For the Pharisees, and 
all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding 
the tradition of the elders. 4 And when they come from the 
market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things 
there are, that they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, 
and pots, brazen vessels, and of tables. 5 Then the Pharisees 
and scribes asked him, "Why walk not thy disciples according 
to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashed hands?" 
6 He answered and said unto them, "Well hath Isaiah prophesied 
of you hypocrites, as it is written: 

* * * 

"This people honoureth me with their lips, 

But their heart is far from me. 

7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, 

Teaching for doctrines the commandments 

of men." 1 

* 

8 For laying aside the commandments of God, you hold the tra- 
dition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other 
such like things you do." 9 And he said unto them, "Full 
well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your 
own tradition. 10 For Moses said, 'Honour thy father and 
thy mother;' and, 'Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die 
the death:' 2 11 but you say, 'If a man shall say to his father 
or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever 
thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. 12 And you 
suffer him no more to do aught for his father or his mother; 
13 making the word of God of none effect through your tradi- 
tion, which you have delivered: and many such like things you 
do." * 

14 And when he had called all the people unto him, he said 
unto them, "Hearken unto me, every one of you, and understand. 
15 There is nothing from without a man, that entering into 
him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those 
are they that defile the man. 16 If any man have ears to hear, 
let him hear." * 

17 And when he was entered into the house from the people, 
his disciples asked him concerning the parable. 18 And he 

l lsa. 29:13. 2 Ex. 20:12. 

Chapter 7:1-18 



98 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

saith unto them, "Are you so without understanding also? Do 
you not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth 
into the man, it cannot defile him; 19 because it entereth 
not into his heart, but into the stomach, and goeth out into 
the draught," purging all meats? 20 And he said, "That which 
cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. 21 For from 
within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adul- 
teries, fornications, murders, 22 thefts, covetousness, wick- 
edness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, 
foolishness: 23 all these things come from within, and defile 
the man." 



THE NORTHERN RETIREMENT INTO PHOENICIA 
The Daughter of a Syrophoenician Woman 

24 And from thence he arose, and went into the borders of 
Tyre and Sidon, and entered into a house, and would have no 
man know it : but he could not be hid. 

* 

25 For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an un- 
clean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell at his feet. 26 
The woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by nation; and she 
besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daugh- 
ter. 27 But Jesus said unto her, "Let the children first be 
filled; for it is not meet to take the children's bread and cast it 
unto the dogs." 28 And she answered and said unto him, "Yes, 
Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs." 
29 And he said unto her, "For this saying go thy way; the devil 
is gone out of thy daughter." 30 And when she was come to 
her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid 
upon the bed. 

THE RETURN THROUGH DECAPOLIS TO THE SEA 
The Healing of a Deaf and Dumb Man 

31 And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, 

he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts 

of Decapolis. 

* 

32 And they bring unto him one that was deaf, and had an 
impediment in his speech; and they beseech him to put his hand 
upon him. 33 And he took him aside from the multitude, and 
put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue; 
34 and looking up to heaven, he sighed, and saith unto him, 
"Ephphatha!" [that is, Be opened]. 35 And straightway his 

Chapter 7:19-35 



The Gospel According to Mark 99 

ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and 
he spoke plain. 36 And he charged them that they should tell 
no man : but the more he charged them, so much the more a great 
deal they published it; 37 and were beyond measure astonished, 
saying, "He hath done all things well: he maketh both the deaf 
to hear, and the dumb to speak." 



The Feeding of the Four Thousand 

8 : 1 In those days, the multitude being very great, and hav- 
ing nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples unto him, and saith 
unto them, 2 "I have compassion on the multitude, because 
they have now been with me three days, and have nothing to 
eat: 3 and if I send them away fasting to their own houses, 
they will faint by the way: for divers of them came from far." 
4 And his disciples answered him, "From whence can a man satisfy 
these men with bread here in the wilderness?" 5 And he asked 
them, "How many loaves have you?" And they said, "Seven." 
6 And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground: 
and he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and brake, and 
gave to his disciples to set before them; and they did set them 
before the people. 7 And they had a few small fishes: and he 
blessed, and commanded to set them also before them. 8 So 
they did eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat 
that was left seven baskets. 9 And they that had eaten were 
about four thousand: and he sent them away. 



The Request for a Sign from Heaven 

10 And straightway he entered into a ship with his disciples, 
and came into the parts of Dalmanutha. 

* 

11 And the Pharisees came forth, and began to question with 
him, seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him. 12 And 
he sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, "Why doth this gen- 
eration seek after a sign? Verily I say unto you, There shall no 
sign be given unto this generation." 13 And he left them, and 
entering into the ship again departed to the other side. 

* 

14 Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had 
they in the ship with them more than one loaf. 15 And he 
charged them, saying, "Take heed, beware of the leaven of the 
Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod." 16 And they reasoned 

Chapter 7:36-8:16 



100 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

among themselves, saying, "It is because we have no bread." 
17 And when Jesus knew it, he saith unto them, "Why reason ye, 
because you have no bread? perceive you not yet, neither under- 
stand? have you your heart yet hardened? 18 Having eyes, 
see you not? and having ears, hear you not? and do you not re- 
member? 19 When I broke the five loaves among five thousand, 
how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?" They say unto 
him, "Twelve." 20 "And when the seven among four thousand, 
how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?" And they 
said, "Seven." 21 And he said unto them, "How is it that you 
do not understand?" 

THE RETIREMENT INTO DECAPOLIS 
The Blind Man of Bethsaida 

22 And he cometh to Bethsaida; and they bring a blind man 
unto him, and besought him to touch him. 23 And he took the 
blind man by the hand, and led him out of the town; and when 
he had spit on his eyes, and put his hands upon him, he asked 
him if he saw aught. 24 And he looked up, and said, "I see 
men as trees, walking." 25 After that he put his hands again 
upon his eyes, and made him look up : and he was restored, and 
saw every man clearly. 26 And he sent him away to his house, 
saying, "Neither go into the town, nor tell it to any in the town." 



The Great Confession at Caesarea Philippi 

27 And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of 
Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying 
unto thenv "Who do men say that I am?" 28 And they an- 
swered, "John the Baptist:" but some say, "Elijah;" and others, 
"One of the prophets." 29 And he saith unto them, "But who 
say ye that I am?" And Peter answereth and saith unto him, 
"Thou art the Christ." 30 And he charged them that they should 
tell no man of him. 



The Forecast of the Passion 

31 And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must 
suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and of the 
chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days 
rise again. 32 And he spoke that saying openly. And Peter 
took him, and began to rebuke him. 33 But when he had turned 
about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, 
"Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things 
that are of God, but the things that are of men." 

Chapter 8:17-33 



The Gospel According to Mark 101 

The Cost of Discipleship 

34 And when he had called the people unto him with his dis- 
ciples also, he said unto them: 

* * * 

"Whosoever will come after me, let him deny him- 
self, and take up his cross, and follow me. 

* 

35 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it ; 

* 

And whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and 
the gospel's, the same shall save it. 

* 

36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain 
the whole world, and lose his own soul? 

* 

37 Or what shall a man give in exchange for his 

soul? 

* 

38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me 

and of my words in this adulterous and sinful 

generation, of him also shall the Son of man be 

ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father 

with the holy angels." 

* 

9:1 And he said unto them, ' 'Verily I say unto you, that there 
are some of them that stand here, that shall not taste of death, 
till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power." 



The Transfiguration of Jesus 

2 And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James 
and John, and leadeth them up into a high mountain apart by 
themselves: and he was transfigured before them. 3 And his 
raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller 
on earth can whiten them. 4 And there appeared unto them 
Elijah with Moses; and they were talking with Jesus. 5 And 
Peter answered and said to Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to 
be here: let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one 
for Moses, and one for Elijah." 6 For he knew not what to say; 
for they were sore afraid. 7 And there was a cloud that over- 
shadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This 
is my beloved Son: hear him." 8 And suddenly, when they had 
looked round about, they saw no man any more, save Jesus only 
with themselves. 9 And as they came down from the mountain, 
he charged them that they should tell no man what things they 

Chapter 8:34-9:9 



102 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

had seen, till the Son of man were risen from the dead. 10 And 
they kept that saying with themselves, questioning one with 
another what the rising from the dead should mean. 

* 

11 And they asked him, saying, "Why say the scribes that 
Elijah must first come?" 12 And he answered and told them, 
' 'Elijah verily cometh first, and restoreth all things; and how it 
is written of the Son of man, that he must suffer many things, 
and be set at nought. 13 But I say unto you, That Elijah is 
indeed come, and they have done unto him whatsoever they 
would, as it is written of him." 



The Healing of a Demoniac Boy 

14 And when he came to his disciples, he saw a great mul- 
titude about them, and the scribes questioning with them. 15 
And straightway all the people, when they beheld him, were 
greatly amazed, and running to him saluted him. 16 And he 
asked the scribes, "What question ye with them?" 17 And one 
of the multitude answered and said, "Master, I have brought unto 
thee my son, who hath a dumb spirit; 18 and wheresoever he 
taketh him, he teareth him; and he foameth, and gnasheth with 
his teeth, and pineth away: and I spoke to thy disciples that 
they should cast him out; and they could not." 19 He an- 
swereth him, and saith, "O faithless generation, how long shall 
I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him to me." 
20 And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, 
straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and 
wallowed foaming. 21 And he asked his father, "How long ago 
is it since this came unto him?" And he said, "Of a child. 22 
And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, 
to destroy him: but if thou canst do anything, have compassion 
on us, and help us." 23 Jesus said unto him, "If thou canst 
believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." 24 And 
straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, 
"Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief." 25 When Jesus saw 
that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul 
spirit, saying unto him, "Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge 
thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him." 26 And 
the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him : and he was 
as one dead; insomuch that many said, "He is dead." 27 But 
Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up; and he arose. 
28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked 
him privately, "Why could not we cast him out?" 29 And he 
said unto them, "This kind can come forth by nothing, but by 
prayer and fasting." 

Chapter 9:10-29 



The Gospel According to Mark 103 

THE SECRET ARRIVAL IN GALILEE 
The Forecast Again of the Betrayal and Passion 

30 And they departed thence, and passed through Galilee; 
and he would not that any man should know it. 31 For he 
taught his disciples, and said unto them, "The Son of man is 
delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill him; and 
after that he is killed, he shall rise the third day." 32 But 
they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask him. 



The Question of Rank in the Kingdom 

33 And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he 
asked them, "What is it that you disputed among yourselves by 
the way?" 34 But they held their peace: for by the way they 
had disputed among themselves who should be the greatest. 35 
And he sat down, and called the twelve, and said unto them, 
"If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and 
servant of all." 36 And he took a child, and set him in the 
midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said 
unto them, 37 "Whosoever shall receive one of such children in 
my name, receiveth me : and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth 
not me, but him that sent me." 



The Friends and Enemies of Jesus 

38 And John answered him, saying, "Master, we saw one 
casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and 
we forbade him, because he followeth not us." 39 But Jesus 
said, "Forbid him not: for there is no man that shall do a miracle 
in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. 40 For he that 
is not against us is on our part. 41 For whosoever shall give 
you a cup of water to drink in my name, because you belong 
to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. 
42 And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that be- 
lieve in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged 
about his neck, and he were cast into the sea. 43 And if thy 
hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life 
maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire 
that never shall be quenched: 44 where their worm dieth not, 
and the fire is not quenched. 45 And if thy foot offend thee, 
cut it off : it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having 
two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be 
quenched: 46 where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not 
quenched. 47 And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is 
better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, 

Chapter 9:30^7 



104 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: 48 where their 
worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. 49 For every one 
shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with 
salt. 50 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, where- 
with shall we season it ? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace 
one with another." 



THE JOURNEY FROM CAPERNAUM TO JERUSALEM 
The Sojourn of Jesus Beyond the Jordan 

10:1 And he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts 
of Judaea by the farther side of the Jordan: and the people re- 
sort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again. 



The Address on Marriage and Divorce 

2 And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, "Is it 
lawful for a man to put away his wife?" tempting him. 3 And 
he answered and said unto them, "What did Moses command 
you?" 4 And they said, "Moses suffered us to write a bill of 
divorcement, and to put her away." 5 And Jesus answered and 
said unto them, "For the hardness of your heart he wrote you 
this precept. 6 But from the beginning of the creation God 
made them male and female. 7 For this cause shall a man leave 
his father and mother, and cleave to his wife ; 8 and they twain 
shall be one flesh; so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. 
9 What therefore God hath joined together, let no man put 
asunder." * 

10 And in the house his disciples asked him again of the same 
matter. 11 And he saith unto them, "Whosoever shall put away 
his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her. 
12 And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married 
to another, she committeth adultery." 



The Little Children and the Kingdom 

13 And they brought young children to him, that he should 
touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. 
14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said 
unto them, "Suffer the little children to come unto me, and for- 
bid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Verily 
I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of 
God as a little child, he shall not enter therein." 16 And he 
took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed 
them. 

Chapter 9:48-10:16 



The Gospel According to Mark 105 

The Rich Young Man and the Kingdom 

17 And when he was gone forth in the way, there came one 
running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, "Good Master, 
what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?" 18 And Jesus 
said unto him, "Why callest thou me good? there is none good 
but one, that is God. 19 Thou knowest the commandments, 
'Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear 
false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.' " * 
20 And he answered and said unto him, "Master, all these have 
I observed from my youth." 21 Then Jesus beholding him 
loved him, and said unto him, "One thing thou lackest: go thy 
way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou 
shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up thy cross, and 
follow me." 22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away 
grieved: for he had great possessions. 

* 

23 And Jesus looked round about, and said unto his disciples, 
"How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom 
of God!" 24 And the disciples were astonished at his words. 
But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, "Children, 
how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the 
kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the 
eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of 
God." 26 And they were astonished out of measure, saying 
among themselves, "Who then can be saved?" 27 And Jesus 
looking upon them saith, "With men it is impossible, but not 
with God: for with God all things are possible." 

28 Then began Peter to say unto him, "Lo, we have left all, 
and have followed thee." 29 And Jesus answered and said, 
"Verily I say unto you, There is no man that has left house, or 
brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or 
lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, 30 but he shall receive 
an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brothers and sisters, 
and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in 
the world to come eternal life. 31 But many that are first shall 
be last; and the last first." 



The Forecast of the Crucifixion and Resurrection 

32 And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus 
went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed, 
they were afraid. And he took again the twelve, and began 

*Ex. 20:12f 

Chapter 10:17-32 



106 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

to tell them what things should happen unto him, 33 saying, 
"Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be 
delivered unto the chief priests, and unto the scribes; and they 
shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gen- 
tiles: 34 and they shall mock him, and shall scourge him, and 
shall spit upon him, and shall kill him: and the third day he shall 
rise again." 



The Ambition of James and John 

35 And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto him, 
saying, "Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us what- 
soever we shall desire." 36 And he said unto them, "What 
would ye that I should do for you?" 37 They said unto him, 
"Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and 
the other on thy left hand, in thy glory." 38 But Jesus said 
unto them, "You know not what you ask: can you drink of the 
cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I 
am baptized with?" 39 And they said unto him, "We can." 
And Jesus said unto them, "You shall indeed drink of the cup 
that I drink of; and with the baptism that I am baptized withal 
shall you be baptized: 40 but to sit on my right hand and on 
my left hand is not mine to give; but it shall be given to them for 
whom it is prepared." 

* 

41 And when the ten heard it, they began to be much dis- 
pleased with James and John. 42 But Jesus called them to him, 
and saith unto them, "You know that they that are accounted to 
rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their 
great ones exercise authority upon them. 43 But it shall not 
be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall 
be your minister: 44 and whosoever of you will be the chief - 
est, shall be servant of all. 45 For even the Son of man came not 
to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a 
ransom for many." 



The Healing of Bartimaeus at Jericho 

46 And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho 
with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, 
the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging. 47 And 
when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry 
out, and say, "Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me." 
48 And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but 
he cried a great deal more, "Thou Son of David, have mercy 

Chapter 10:33-48 



The Gospel According to Mark 107 

on me." 49 And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be 
called. And they call the blind man, saying unto him, -"Be of 
good comfort, rise; he calleth thee." 50 And he, casting away 
his garment, rose, and came to Jesus. 51 And Jesus answered 
and said unto him, "What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?" 
The blind man said unto him, "Lord, that I might receive my 
sight." 52 And Jesus said unto him, "Go thy way; thy faith 
hath made thee whole." And immediately he received his sight, 
and followed Jesus in the way. 



THE MINISTRY OF JESUS IN JERUSALEM 
The Triumphal Entry into the City 

11:1 And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage 

and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of 

his disciples, 2 and saith unto them, "Go your way into the 

village over against you: and as soon as you have entered into 

it, you shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; loose him, 

and bring him. 3 And if any man say unto you, Why do ye 

this? say ye that the Lord hath need of him; and straightway 

he will send him hither." 4 And they went their way, and found 

the colt tied by the door without in a place where two ways met ; 

and they loose him. 5 And certain of them that stood there 

said unto them, "What do ye, loosing the colt?" 6 And they said 

unto them even as Jesus had commanded : and they let them go. 

7 And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments 

on him ; and he sat upon him. 8 And many spread their garments 

in the way : and others cut down branches off the trees, and strawed 

them in the way. 9 And they that went before, and they that 

followed, cried, saying: 

* * * 

"Hosanna! 
Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord : 
10 Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, 
That cometh in the name of the Lord : 
Hosanna in the highest!" l 
* 

11 And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple: and 
when he had looked round about upon all things, and now the 
eventide was come, he went out unto Bethany with the twelve. 



The Visit from Bethany to the Temple 

12 And on the morrow, when they were come from Beth- 
any, he was hungry; 13 and seeing a fig tree afar off having 

IPs. 118:26. 

Chapter 10:49-11:13 



108 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and 
when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of 
figs was not yet. 14 And Jesus spoke and said unto it, "No man 
eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever." And his disciples heard it. 



The Cleansing of the Temple 

15 And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the 
temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the 
temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the 
seats of them that sold doves; 16 and would not suffer that 
any man should carry any vessel through the temple. 17 And 
he taught, saying unto them, "Is it not written, 'My house shall 
be called of all nations the house of prayer?' l but you have made 
it a den of thieves." 18 And the scribes and chief priests heard 
it, and sought how they might destroy him : for they feared him, 
because all the people were astonished at his doctrine. 19 And 
when even was come, he went out of the city. 



The Greatness of Faith in God 

20 And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig 
tree dried up from the roots. 21 And Peter calling to remem- 
brance saith unto him, "Master, behold the fig tree which thou 
cursedst is withered away." 22 And Jesus answering saith unto 
them, "Have faith in God. 23 For verily I say unto you, That 
whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and 
be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but 
shall believe that those things that he saith shall come to pass, 
he shall have whatsoever he saith. 24 Therefore I say unto you, 
Whatsoever things you desire, when you pray, believe that you 
receive them, and you shall have them. 25 And when you stand 
praying, forgive, if you have aught against any : that your Father 
also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. 26 But 
if you do not forgive, neither will your Father who is in heaven 
forgive your trespasses." 



THE CONTROVERSY WITH THE RULERS 
The Questioning of Jesus' Authority 

27 And they come again to Jerusalem: and as he was walk- 
ing in the temple, there come to him the chief priests, and the 
scribes, and the elders, 28 and say unto him, "By what au- 
thority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority 
to do these things?" 29 And Jesus answered and said unto them, 

1 Isa. 56:7. 

Chapter 11:14-29 



The Gospel According to Mark 109 

"I will also ask you one question, and answer me, and I will 
tell you by what authority I do these things: 30 The baptism 
of John, was it from heaven, or of men? answer me." 31 And 
they reasoned with themselves, saying, "If we shall say, From 
heaven; he will say, Why then did you not believe him? 32 But 
if we shall say, Of men" — they feared the people: for all men 
counted John, that he was a prophet indeed. 33 And they 
answered and said unto Jesus, "We cannot tell." And Jesus 
answering saith unto them, "Neither do I tell you by what au- 
thority I do these things." 



The Parable of the Wicked Husbandmen 

12:1 And he began to speak unto them by parables. "A cer- 
tain man planted a vineyard, and set a hedge about it, and digged 
a place for the winefat, and built a tower, and let it out to husband- 
men, and went into a far country. 2 And at the season he sent 
to the husbandmen a servant, that he might receive from the 
husbandmen of the fruit of the vineyard. 3 And they caught 
him, and beat him, and sent him away empty. 4 And again he 
sent unto them another servant; and at him they cast stones, 
and wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully 
handled. 5 And again he sent another; and him they killed, 
and many others; beating, some, and killing some. 6 Having 
yet therefore one son, his well beloved, he sent him also last unto 
them, saying, 'They will reverence my son.' 7 But those hus- 
bandmen said among themselves, 'This is the heir; come, let us 
kill him, and the inheritance shall be ours.' 8 And they took 
him, and killed him, and cast him out of the vineyard. 9 What 
shall therefore the lord of the vineyard do? he will come and 
destroy the husbandmen, and will give the vineyard unto others. 
10 And have you not read this scripture: 

'The stone which the builders rejected 
Is become the head of the corner: 
11 This was the Lord's doing, 

And it is marvellous in our eyes?'" 1 
* 

12 And they sought to lay hold on him, but feared the people: 
for they knew that he had spoken the parable against them: and 
they left him and went their way. 

The Question of the Roman Tribute 

13 And they sent unto him certain of the Pharisees and of 
the Herodians, to catch him in his words. 14 And when they 



1 Ps. 118:22. 

Chapter 11:30-12:14 



110 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

were come, they say unto him, "Master, we know that thou art 
true, and carest for no man; for thou regardest not the person 
of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to 
give tribute to Caesar, or not? 15 Shall we give, or shall we not 
give?" But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, "Why 
tempt ye me? bring me a penny, that I may see it." 16 And 
they brought it. And he saith unto them "Whose is this image 
and superscription?" and they said unto him, "Caesar's." 17 
And Jesus answering said unto them, "Render to Caesar the things 
that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." And 
they marvelled at him. 



The Question of the Resurrection 

18 Then come unto him the Sadducees, who say there is no 
resurrection; and they asked him, saying, 19 "Master, Moses 
wrote unto us, 'If a man's brother die, and leave his wife behind 
him, and leave no children, that his brother should take his 
wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.' 1 20 Now there were 
seven brothers: and the first took a wife, and dying left no seed. 
21 And the second took her, and died; neither left he any seed: 
and the third likewise. 22 And the seven had her, and left no 
seed: last of all the woman died also. 23 In the resurrection 
therefore, when they shall rise, whose wife shall she be of them? 
for seven had her as wife." 24 And Jesus answering said unto 
them, "Do you not therefore err, because you know not the scrip- 
tures, neither the power of God? 25 For when they shall rise 
from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage: 
but are as the angels that are in heaven. 26 And as touching 
the dead, that they rise: have you not read in the book of Moses, 
how in the bush God spoke unto him, saying, 'I am the God of 
Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob?' 2 27 
He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living: you 
therefore do greatly err." 



The Question of the Commandments 

28 And one of the scribes came, and having heard them rea- 
soning together, and perceiving that he had answered them 
well, asked him, "Which is the first commandment of all?" 29 
And Jesus answered him, "The first of all the commandments is, 
'Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord; 30 and thou 
shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all 
thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength:' 3 this 

1 Gen. 38 :8. 2 Ex. 3 :6. 3 Deut . 6 :4f . 

Chapter 12:15-30 



The Gospel According to Mark 111 

is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like unto it» 
namely this, 'Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.' 1 - There 
is no other commandment greater than these." 32 And the 
scribe said unto him, "Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: 
for there is one God; and there is no other but he: 33 and 
to love him with all the heart, and with all the understand- 
ing, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love 
his neighbor as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings 
and sacrifices." 34 And when Jesus saw that he answered dis- 
creetly, he said unto him, "Thou art not far from the kingdom 
of God." 



The Question Concerning the Son of David 

35 And Jesus answered and said, while he taught in the tem- 
ple, "How say the scribes that Christ is the Son of David? 36 
For David himself said by the Holy Spirit : 

* * * 

'The Lord said to my Lord, 
Sit thou on my right hand, 
Till I make thine enemies thy footstool.' * 
* 

37 David therefore himself calleth him Lord; and whence is 
he then his son?" And the common people heard him gladly. 



THE LAST WORDS WITH THE DISCIPLES 
The Condemnation of the Scribes 

38 And he said unto them in his doctrine, "Beware of the 
scribes, who love to go in long clothing, and love salutations in 
the marketplaces, 39 and the chief seats in the synagogues, 
and the uppermost rooms at feasts : 40 Who devour widows' 
houses, and for a pretence make long prayers: these shall receive 
greater damnation." 

The Poor Widow's Two Mites 

41 And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how 
the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were 
rich cast in much. 42 And there came a certain poor widow, and 
she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. 43 And he 
called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, "Verily I say 
unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they 

iLev. 19:18. 2 Ps. 110:1. 

Chapter 12:31-43 



112 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

that have cast into the treasury: 44 for all they did cast in of 
their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, 
even all her living." 



The Great Address on Last Things 

13:1 And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples 

saith unto him, "Master, see what manner of stones, and what 

buildings are here!" 2 And Jesus answering said unto him, 

"Seest thou these great buildings? there shall not be left one stone 

upon another, that shall not be thrown down." 1 3 And as he 

sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and 

James and John and Andrew asked him privately, 4 "Tell us, 

when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all 

these things shall be fulfilled?" 5 And Jesus answering them 

began to say: 

* * * 

"Take heed lest any man deceive you: 6 for 
many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; 
and shall deceive many. 

* 

7 And when you shall hear of wars and rumours 
of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must 
needs be; but the end shall not be yet. 8 For nation 
shall rise against nation, and kingdom against king- 
dom : and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, 
and there shall be famines and troubles: these are 
the beginnings of sorrows. 



9 But take heed to yourselves : for they shall de- 
liver you up to councils ; and in the synagogues you 
shall be beaten: and you shall be brought before 
rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against 
them. 10 And the gospel must first be published 
among all nations. 11 But when they shall lead 
you, and deliver you up, take no thought before- 
hand what you shall speak, neither do ye premedi- 
tate : but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, 
that speak ye: for it is not you that speak, but the 
Holy Spirit. 12 Now the brother shall betray the 
brother to death, and the father the son; and chil- 
dren shall rise up against their parents, and shall 
cause them to be put to death. 13 And you shall 



1 Jerusalem fell under the Romans A. D. 70. 

Chapter 12:44-13:13 



The Gospel According to Mark 113 

be hated of all men for my name's sake ; but he that 
shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. * 

* 

14 But when you shall see the abomination of 
desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand- 
ing where it ought not [let him that readeth under- 
stand], then let them that are in Judaea flee to the 
mountains: 15 and let him that is on the housetop 
not go down into the house, neither enter therein, 
to take any thing out of his house : 16 and let him 
that is in the field not turn back again to take up 
his garment. 17 But woe to them that are with 
child, and to them that give such in those days! 
18 And pray ye that your flight be not in the win- 
ter. 19 For in those days there shall be affliction, 
such as was not from the beginning of the creation 
which God created until this time, neither shall 
be. 20 And except the Lord had shortened those 
days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's 
sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the 
days. 21 And then if any man shall say to you, 
Lo, here is Christ; or, Lo, he is there: believe him 
not; 22 for false Christs and false prophets shall 
rise, and shall show signs and wonders, to seduce, 
if it were possible, even the elect. 23 But take 
heed: behold, I have foretold you all things. 

* 

24 But in those days, after that tribulation, 
the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not 
give her light, 25 and the stars of heaven shall fall, 
and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken. 
26 And then shall they see the Son of man coming 
in the clouds with great power and glory. 27 And 
then shall he send his angels, and shall gather 
together his elect from the four winds, from the 
uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part 
of heaven. * 

28 Now learn a parable of the fig tree: When 
her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, 
you know that summer is near: 29 so you in like 
manner, when you shall see these things come to pass, 
know that it is nigh, even at the doors. 30 Verily 
I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, 
till all these things be done. 31 Heaven and earth 
shall pass away : but my words shall not pass away. 
32 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, 

Chapter 13:14-32 



114 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

no, not the angels that are in heaven, neither the 
Son, but the Father. 33 Take ye heed, watch and 
pray : for you know not when the time is. 34 For the 
Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left 
his house, and gave authority to his servants, and 
to every man his work, and commanded the porter 
to watch. 35 Watch ye therefore: for you know 
not when the master of the house cometh, at even, 
or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the 
morning: 36 lest coming suddenly he find you 
sleeping. 37 And what I say unto you, I say unto 
all, Watch." 



THE CRUCIFIXION AND RESURRECTION OF JESUS 
The Plot of the Jewish Rulers Against Jesus 

14: 1 After two days was the feast of the passover, and of un- 
leavened bread: and the chief priests and the scribes sought 
how they might take him by craft, and put him to death. 2 
But they said, "Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar of 
the people." 

The Anointing of Jesus at Bethany 

3 And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as 
he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of 
ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, 
and poured it on his head. 4 And there were some that had 
indignation within themselves, and said, "Why was this waste of 
the ointment made? 5 for it might have been sold for more 
than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor." 
And they murmured against her. 6 And Jesus said, "Let her 
alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me. 
7 For you have the poor with you always, and whensoever you 
will you may do them good: but me you have not always. 8 She 
hath done what she could: she is come beforehand to anoint 
my body to the burying. 9 Verily I say unto you, wheresoever 
this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this 
also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of 
her." 

The Conspiracy of Judas Iscariot 

10 And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief 
priests, to betray him unto them. 11 And when they heard it, 
they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he sought 
how he might conveniently betray him. 

Chapter 13:33-14:11 



The Gospel According to Mark 115 

The Preparation for the Passover 

12 And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed 
the passover, his disciples said unto him, "Where wilt thou that 
we go and prepare that thou may est eat the passover?" 13 
And he sendeth forth two of his disciples, and saith unto them, 
"Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing 
a pitcher of water: follow him. 14 And wheresoever he shall 
go in, say ye to the good man of the house, The Master saith, 
Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with 
my disciples? 15 And he will show you a large upper room 
furnished and prepared: there make ready for us." 16 And 
his disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as 
he had said unto them : and they made ready the passover. 



The Forecast of the Betrayal 

17 And in the evening he cometh with the twelve. 18 And 
as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, "Verily I say unto you, One 
of you that eateth with me shall betray me." 19 And they 
began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him one by one, "Is it 
I?" and another said, "Is it I?" 20 And he answered and said 
unto them, "It is one of the twelve, that dippeth with me in the 
dish. 21 The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: 
but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good 
were it for that man if he had never been born." 



The Institution of the Holy Communion 

22 And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and 
brake it, and gave to them, and said, "Take, eat: this is my 
body." 23 And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, 
he gave it to them: and they all drank of it. 24 And he said 
unto them, "This is my blood of the new testament, which is 
shed for many. 25 Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more 
of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the 
kingdom of God." 



The Forecast of the Passion and Peter's Denial 

26 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out into the 
mount of Olives. 27 And Jesus saith unto them, "All of you 
shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, 'I 
will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.' 28 
But after that I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee." 
29 But Peter said unto him, "Although all shall be offended, 

Chapter 14:12-29 



116 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

yet will not I." 30 And Jesus saith unto him, "Verily I say 
unto thee, That this day, even in this night, before the cock crow 
twice, thou shalt deny me thrice." 31 But he spoke the more 
vehemently, "If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in 
any wise." Likewise also said they all. 



The Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane 

32 And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: 
and he saith to his disciples, "Sit ye here, while I shall pray." 
33 And he taketh with him Peter and James and John, and began 
to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy; 34 and saith unto 
them, "My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye 
here and watch." 35 And he went forward a little and fell on 
the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might 
pass from him. 36 And he said, "Abba, Father, all things are 
possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless 
not what I will, but what thou wilt." 37 And he cometh, and 
findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, "Simon, sleepest 
thou? couldest not thou watch one hour? 38 Watch ye, and pray, 
lest you enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but 
the flesh is weak." 39 And again he went away, and prayed, 
and spoke the same words. 40 And when he returned, he found 
them asleep again (for their eyes were heavy), neither knew they 
what to answer him. 41 And he cometh the third time, and 
saith unto them, "Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough 
the hour is come; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the 
hands of sinners. 42 Rise up, let us go; lo, he that betray eth 
me is at hand." 



The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus 

43 And immediately, while he yet spoke, cometh Judas, one 
of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and 
staves, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 
44 And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, 
"Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead 
him away safely." 45 And as soon as he was come, he goeth 
straightway to him, and saith, "Master, Master;" and kissed 
him. 46 And they laid their hands on him, and took him. 47 
And one of them that stood by drew a sword, and smote a servant 
of the high priests, and cut off his ear. 48 And Jesus answered 
and said unto them, "Are you come out, as against a thief, with 
swords and with staves to take me? 49 I was daily with you in 
the temple teaching, and you took me not: but the scriptures 
must be fulfilled." 50 And they all forsook him and fled. 

Chapter 14:30-50 



The Gospel According to Mark 117 

The Escape of a Young Man 

51 And there followed him a certain young man, having a 
linen cloth cast about his naked body; and the young men laid 
hold on him: 52 and he left the linen cloth, and fled from them 
naked. 



The Condemnation by the Sanhedrin 

53 And they led Jesus away to the high priest: and with him 
were assembled all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes. 
54 And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the 
high priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself 
at the fire. 55 And the chief priests and all the council sought 
for witness against Jesus to put him to death; and found none. 
56 For many bare false witness against him, but their witness 
agreed not together. 57 And there arose certain, and bare false 
witness against him, saying, 58 "We heard him say, 'I will 
destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three 
days I will build another made without hands.' " 59 But neither 
so did their witness agree together. 60 And the high priest stood 
up in the midst and asked Jesus, saying, "Answerest thou nothing? 
what is it that these witness against thee?" 61 But he held his 
peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, 
and said unto him, "Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?" 

62 And Jesus said, "I am : and you shall see the Son of man sitting 
on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven." 

63 Then the high priest rent his clothes, and saith, "What need 
we any further witnesses? 64 You have heard the blasphemy: 
what think ye?" And they all condemned him to be guilty of 
death. 



The Mocking of Jesus 

65 And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and 
to buffet him, and to say unto him, "Prophesy:" and the servants 
did strike him with the palms of their hands. 



The Denial of Jesus by Peter 

66 And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one 
of the maids of the high priest: 67 and when she saw Peter 
warming himself, she looked upon him, and said, "And thou also 
wast with Jesus of Nazareth." 68 But he denied, saying, "I 
know not, neither understand I what thou say est." And he went 
out into the porch; and the cock crew. 69 And a maid saw him 
again, and began to say to them that stood by, "This is one of 

Chapter 14:51-69 



118 The Greatest Book Ever Written 



them." 70 And he denied it again. And a little after, they 
that stood by said again to Peter, "Surely thou art one of them: 
for thou art a Galilsean, and thy speech agreeth thereto" 71 
But he began to curse and to swear, saying, "I know not this 
man of whom you speak." 72 And the second time the cock 
crew. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto 
him, "Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice." 
And when he thought thereon, he wept. 



The Hearing Before Pilate the Governor 

15:1 And straightway in the morning the chief priests held 
a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, 
and bound Jesus, and carried him away, and delivered him to 
Pilate. 2 And Pilate asked him, "Art thou the King of the 
Jews?" And he answering said unto him, "Thou sayest it" 3 
And the chief priests accused him of many things; but he an- 
swered nothing. 4 And Pilate asked him again, saying, "An- 
swerest thou nothing ? behold how many things they witness against 
thee." 5 But Jesus yet answered nothing; so that Pilate mar- 
velled. 

* 

6 Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whom- 
soever they desired. 7 And there was one named Barabbas, 
who lay bound with them that had made insurrection with him, 
who had committed murder in the insurrection. 8 And the mul- 
titude crying aloud began to desire him to do as he had ever done 
unto them. 9 But Pilate answered them, saying, "Will you 
that I release unto you the King of the Jews?" 10 For he knew 
that the chief priests had delivered him for envy. 11 But the 
chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release 
Barabbas unto them. 12 And Pilate answered and said again 
unto them, "What will you then that I shall do unto him whom 
you call the King of the Jews?" 13 And they cried out again, 
"Crucify him." 14 Then Pilate said unto them, "Why, what 
evil hath he done?" And they cried out the more exceedingly, 
"Crucify him." 15 And so Pilate, willing to content the people, 
released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had 
scourged him, to be crucified. 

* 

16 And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called the 
Prsetorium; and they called together the whole band. 17 And 
they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, 
and put it about his head, 18 and began to salute him, "Hail, 
King of the Jews!" 19 And they smote him on the head with a 

Chapter 14:70-15:19 



The Gospel According to Mark 119 

reed, and did spit upon him, and bowing their knees worshipped 
him. 20 And when they had mocked him, they took off the 
purple from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him 
out to crucify him. 



The Crucifixion of Jesus at Golgotha 

21 And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, 
coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, 
to bear his cross. 22 And they bring him unto the place of Gol- 
gotha [which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull]. 23 
And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he 
received it not. 

24 And when they had crucified him, they parted his gar- 
ments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take. 

* 

25 And it was the third hour, and they crucified him. 

26 And the superscription of his accusation was written over: 

* * * 

"THE KING OF THE JEWS." 

* 

27 And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his 
right hand, and the other on his left. 28 And the scripture 
was fulfilled, which saith, "And he was numbered with the trans- 
gressors." 1 

29 And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their 
heads, and saying, "Ah, thou that destroy est the temple, and 
buildest it in three days, 30 save thyself and come down from 
the cross." 

31 Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among them- 
selves with the scribes, "He saved others; himself he cannot save. 
32 Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that 

we may see and believe." 

* 

And they that were crucified with him reviled him. 



The Death of Jesus on the Cross 

33 And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness 
over the whole land until the ninth hour. 34 And at the ninth 



1 Isa. 53:12. 

Chapter 15:20-34 



120 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, "Eloi, Eloi lama sa- 
bachthani?" [which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, 
why hast thou forsaken me?]. 35 And some of them that stood 
by, when they heard it, said, "Behold, he calleth Elijah." 36 
Arid one ran and filled a sponge full of vinegar, and put it on a 
reed, and gave him to drink, saying, "Let alone; let us see whether 
Elijah will come to take him down?" 37 And Jesus cried with 
a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. 

* 

3& And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top 

to the bottom. 

* 

39 And when the centurion, who stood over against him, saw 

that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, "Truly this 

man was the Son of God." 

* 

40 There were also women looking on afar off: among whom 
was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the Mother of James the less 
and of Joses, and Salome 41 [who also, when he was in Galilee, 
followed him, and ministered unto him]; and many other women 
who came up with him unto Jerusalem. 



The Burial of Jesus Near Jerusalem 

42 And now when the even was come, because it was the prep- 
aration, that is, the day before the sabbath, 43 Joseph of 
Arimathsea, an honourable counsellor, who also waited for the 
kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved 
the body of Jesus. 44 And Pilate marvelled if he were already 
dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether 
he had been any while dead. 45 And when he knew it of the 
centurion, he gave the body to Joseph. 46 And he bought fine 
linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid 
him in a sepulchre that was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone 
unto the door of the sepulchre. 47 And Mary Magdalene and 
Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid. 



THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS 
The Discovery of the Women 

16:1 And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and 
Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, 
that they might come and anoint him. 2 And very early in the 
morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre 
at the rising of the sun. 3 And they said among themselves, 
"Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?" 

Chapter 15:35-16:3 



The Gospel According to Mark 121 

4 And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled 
away: for it was very great. 5 And entering into the sepul- 
chre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed 
in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. 6 And he 
saith unto them, "Be not affrighted: You seek Jesus of Naza- 
reth, who was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place 
where they laid him. 7 But go your way, tell his disciples and 
Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall you see 
him, as he said unto you." 8 And they went out quickly, and 
fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: 
neither said they anything to any man; for they were afraid. 



The Appearances and Ascension of Jesus 

9 Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, 
he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast 
seven devils. 10 And she went and told them that had been 
with him, as they mourned and wept. 11 And they, when they 
had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed 
not. * 

12 After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, 
as they walked, and went into the country. 13 And they went 
and told it unto the residue : neither believed they them. 

* 

14 Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at 
meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of 
heart, because they believed not them that had seen him after 
he was risen. 15 And he said unto them, "Go ye into all the 
world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that 
believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth 
not shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow them that 
believe: In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak 
with tongues; 18 they shall take up serpents; and if they drink 
any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands 
on the sick, and they shall recover." 

* 

19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was re- 
ceived up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. 

* 

20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord 
working with them, and confirming the word with signs follow- 
ing. Amen. 

* * * 



The Gospel 
According to Luke 



®Ijf flrffar? 

The Manifold Gospel of Jesus Christ 
the Beloved Son of God 



THE DEDICATION TO THEOPHILUS 

THE DESIGN OF THE AUTHOR OF THE GOSPEL 
The Sources of the Gospel Record 

Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order 
a declaration of those things that are most surely believed among 
us, 2 even as they delivered them unto us, who from the be- 
ginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word, 3 it seemed 
good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things 
from the very first, to write 2 unto thee in order, Most Excellent 
Theophilus, 2 4 that thou might est know the certainty of those 
things, wherein thou hast been instructed. 

1 The Gospel According to Luke was written for the Gentiles, as Matthew 
was for the Jews. It has been said to be "the most beautiful book ever 
written." Luke in a general way uses the literary model upon which Matthew 
was written. He wrote his gospel and history very probably in the early 
part of the fourth quarter of the first century. 

2 Theophilus: Probably a distinguished Roman citizen. 

Chapter 1:1-4 



125 



Part <0n? 
The Private Life of Jesus Christ 



§1. THE ANNUNCIATION 

I. THE PROMISE OF GOD TO ZACHARIAS 

a. The Parents of John the Baptist 

There was in the days of Herod, 1 the king of Judaea, a cer- 
tain priest name Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife 
was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 
And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the 
commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. 7 And 
they had no child, because that Elizabeth was barren, and they 
both were now well stricken in years. 



b. The Vision of Zacharias in the Temple 

8 And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's of- 
fice before God in the order of his course, 9 according to the 
custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when 
he went into the temple of the Lord. 10 And the whole multi- 
tude of the people were without praying at the time of incense. 
11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord, standing 
on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias 
saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the 

angel said unto him: 

* * * 

"Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard, 
And thy wife Elizabeth shall bear thee a son, 
And thou shall call his name John. 2 

14 And thou shalt have joy and gladness; 
And many shall rejoice at his birth. 

15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, 
And shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; 
And he shall be filled with the Holy Spirit, 
Even from his birth. 



1 Herod the Great reigned B. C. 37-4. 
5 John: i. e., The Grace of God. 



127 Chapter 1:5-15 



128 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

16 And many of the children of Israel shall be turned 

to the Lord their God. 

17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and 

power of Elijah, 
To turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, 
And the disobedient to the wisdom of the just ; 
To make ready a people prepared for the Lord." 
* 

18 And Zacharias said unto the angel, "Whereby shall I know 
this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years." 
19 And the angel answered and said unto him : 

"I am Gabriel, 1 who stand in the presence 

of God; 
And am sent to speak unto thee, 
And to show thee these glad tidings. 
20 And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, 
And not able to speak, 
Until the day that these things shall 

be performed, 
Because thou believest not my words, 
Which shall be fulfilled in their season." 
* 

21 And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he 
tarried so long in the temple. 22 And when he came out, he 
could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen 
a vision in the temple : for he beckoned unto them, and remained 
speechless. 23 And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of 
his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house. 



c. The Retirement of Elizabeth 

24 And after these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and hid 
herself five months, saying: 

25 "Thus hath the Lord dealth with me, 
In the days wherein he looked on me, 
To take away my reproach among men." 



H. THE ANNUNCIATION TO MARY 
The Birth of Jesus Christ is Promised by the Angel 

26 And in the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from 
God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin 

1 Michael, the angel of judgment; Gabriel the angel of mercy. 

Chapter 1:16-27 



1:28 The Gospel According to Luke 129 

espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David ; 
and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And the angel came in 

unto her, and said: 

* * * 

"Hail, thou that art highly favoured, 
The Lord is with thee : 
Blessed art thou among women!" 
* 

29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and 
cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 
And the angel said unto her: 

"Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found 
favour with God. 

31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive, 
And bring forth a son, 

And thou shalt call his name Jesus. 

32 He shall be great, and shall be called 

the Son of the Highest : 
And the Lord shall give unto him the throne 
of his father David : 

33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob 

for ever; 
And of his kingdom there shall be no end." 
* 

34 Then said Mary unto the angel, "How shall this be, seeing 
that I know not a man?" 35 And the angel answered and said 

unto her: 

* * * 

"The Holy Spirit shall come upon thee, 
And the power of the Highest shall 

overshadow thee ; 
Therefore also that holy thing that shall 

be born of thee, 
Shall be called the Son of God. 

36 And, behold, thy cousin Elizabeth, 

She hath also conceived a son in her old age: 
And this is the sixth month with her, 
who was called barren. 

37 For with God nothing shall be impossible." 

* 

38 And Mary said: 

* * * 

"Behold the handmaid of the Lord; 
Be it unto me according to thy word." 

Chapter 1:28-38 



130 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

m. THE VISIT OF MARY TO ELIZABETH 
a. The Canticle of Elizabeth 

39 And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill coun- 
try with haste, into a city of Judah; 40 and entered into the 
house of Zacharias, and saluted Elizabeth. 41 And it came to 
pass, that when Elizabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the 
babe leaped in her womb ; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy 
Spirit: 42 and she spoke out with a loud voice, and said: 

* * * 

"Blessed art thou among women, 
And blessed is the fruit of thy womb. 

43 And whence is this to me, 

That the mother of my Lord should come to me ? 

44 For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation 

sounded in my ears, 
The babe leaped in my womb for joy. 

45 And blessed is she that believed: 

For there shall be a performance of those things 
that were told her from the Lord." 



b. The "Magnificat" 1 of Mary 

46 And Mary said: 

* * * 

"My soul doth magnify the Lord, 

47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. 

48 For he hath regarded the low estate 

of his handmaiden; 
For, behold, from henceforth all generations 
shall call me blessed. 
* 

49 For he that is mighty hath done to me 

great things; 
And holy is his name. 

50 And his mercy is on them that fear him 
From generation to generation. 

51 He hath shown strength with his arm; 

He hath scattered the proud in the imagination 
of their hearts. 

52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, 
And exalted them of low degree. 



1 The Magnificat falls into four strophes. It is modelled on the Psalms. 

Chapter 1:39-52 



1:53 The Gospel According to Luke 131 

53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; 
And the rich he hath sent empty away. 

* 

54 He hath helped his servant Israel, 
In remembrance of his mercy; 

55 As he spoke to our fathers, 

To Abraham, and to his seed for ever." 

56 And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned 
to her own house. 



§2. THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST 

THE CIRCUMCISION AND NAME 
a. The Impression Upon the People 

57 Now Elizabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; 
and she brought forth a son. 58 And her neighbors and her 
cousins heard how the Lord had shown great mercy upon her; 
and they rejoiced with her. 59 And it came to pass, that on the 
eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called 
him Zacharias, after the name of his father. 60 And his mother 
answered and said, "Not so; but he shall be called John." 61 
And they said unto her, "There is none of thy kindred that is 
called by that name." 62 And they made signs to his father, 
how he would have him called. 63 And he asked for a writing 
table, and wrote, saying, "His name is John." And they all 
marvelled. 64 And his mouth was opened immediately, and 
his tongue loosed, and he spoke, and praised God. 65 And fear 
came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings 
were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea. 
66 And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, 
saying, "What manner of child shall this be!" And the hand of 
the Lord was with him. 



b. The "Benedictus" » of Zacharias 

67 And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, 

and prophesied, saying: 

* * * 

68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; 

For he hath visited and redeemed his people, 

69 And hath raised up a horn of salvation for us 
In the house of his servant David; 



1 The "Benedictus" falls into five strophes. It is modelled on the 
prophets. 

Chapter 1:53-69 



132 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

70 As he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets, 
Who have been since the world began: 

71 That we should be saved from our enemies, 
And from the hand of all that hate us; 

72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, 
And to remember his holy covenant ; 

* 

73 The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 

74 That he would grant unto us, 

That we being delivered out of the hand 

of our enemies, 
Might serve him without fear, 

75 In holiness and righteousness before him, 

all the days of our life. 
* * 

76 And thou, child, shall be called the prophet 

of the Highest: 
For thou shalt go before the face of the Lord 
to prepare his ways; 

77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people, 
By the remission of their sins: 

* 

78 Through the tender mercy of our God; 
Whereby the Dayspring from on high 

hath visited us, 

79 To give light to them that sit in darkness, 
And in the shadow of death, 

To guide our feet into the way of peace." 
* 

80 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in 
the deserts till the day of his showing unto Israel. 



§3. THE NATIVITY 

I. THE BIRTH OF JESUS AT BETHLEHEM 

The Cradle in the Manger 

2 : 1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a 
decree from Caesar Augustus, 1 that all the world should be taxed. 
2 And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor 
of Syria. 3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. 
4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of 
Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called 

1 Augustus, Emperor of Rome, reigned B. C. 31-A. D. 12, 14. 

Chapter 1:70-2:4 



2:5 The Gospel According to Luke 133 

Bethlehem (because he was of the house and lineage of David); 
5 to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with 
child. 6 And so it was, that while they were there, the days 
were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7 And she 
brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling 
clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room 
for them in the inn. 



II. THE ANGEL AND THE SHEPHERDS 
a. The Proclamation to the Shepherds 

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in 

the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, 

the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord 

shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the 

angel said unto them : 

* * * 

"Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings 

of great joy, 
Which shall be to all people. 

1 1 For unto you is born this day in the city of David 
A Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. 

12 And this shall be a sign unto you: 

You shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling 

clothes, 
Lying in a manger." 



b. The "Gloria in Excelsis" 

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the 
heavenly host praising God, and saying: 

14 "Glory to God in the highest, 

And on earth peace, good will toward men." 

* 

15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them 
into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, "Let us now go 
even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing that is come to pass, 
which the Lord hath made known to us." 16 And they came 
with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a 
manger. 17 And when they had seen him, they made known 
abroad the saying that was told them concerning this child. 
18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things that were 
told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things, 

Chapter 2:5-19 



134 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

and pondered them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, 
glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard 
and seen, as it was told unto them. 



HI. THE CIRCUMCISION AND PRESENTATION 
a. The Name Given by the Angel 

21 And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcis- 
ing of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named 
by the angel before he was born. 



b. The "Nunc Dimittis" of Simeon 

22 And when the days of her purification according to the 
law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, 
to present him to the Lord 23 [as it is written in the law of the 
Lord: 1 "Every male that is the firstborn shall be called Holy unto 
the Lord"], 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to that which 
is said in the law of the Lord, "A pair of turtledoves, or two 
young pigeons." 25 And behold there was a man in Jerusalem, 
whose name was Simeon; and the same was just and devout, 
waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Spirit was 
upon him. 26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Spirit 
that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 
27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the 
parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the cus- 
tom of the law, 28 then took he him up in his arms, and blessed 

God, and said: 

* * * 

29 "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart 

in peace, 
According to thy word; 

30 For my eyes have seen thy salvation, 

31 Which thou hast prepared before the face 

of all people; 

32 A light to lighten the Gentiles, 
And the glory of thy people Israel." 

* 

33 And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things that 
were spoken of him. 34 And Simeon blessed them, and said 
unto Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and 
rising again of many in Israel ; and for a sign which shall be spoken 
against; 35 yea, a sword shall pierce through thine own soul 

^x. 13:2. 

Chapter 2:20-35 



2:36 The Gospel According to Luke 135 

also, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." 36 
And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, 
of the tribe of Asher : she was of a great age, and had lived with 
a husband seven years from her virginity; 37 and she was a 
widow of about fourscore and four years, who departed not from 
the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and 
day. 38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise 
unto the Lord, and spoke of him to all them that looked for re- 
demption in Jerusalem. 39 And when they had performed all 
things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Gali- 
lee, to their own city Nazareth. 



c. The Childhood of Jesus at Nazareth 

40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with 
wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. 



IV. THE VISIT OF JESUS TO JERUSALEM 
The Child Jesus Among the Doctors 

41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast 
of the passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they 
went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. 43 And 
when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned the child Jesus 
tarried behind in Jerusalem ; and Joseph and his mother knew not 
of it. 44 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, 
went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk 
and acquaintance. 45 And when they found him not, they 
turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. 46 And it came 
to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sit- 
ting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking 
them questions. 47 And all that heard him were astonished 
at his understanding and answers. 48 And when they saw him, 
they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, "Son, why hast 
thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought 
thee sorrowing." 49 And he said unto them, "How is it that 
you sought me? know you not that I must be about my Father's 
business?" 50 And they understood not the saying that he 
spoke unto them. 51 And he went down with them, and came 
to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept 
all these sayings in her heart. 



b. The Manhood of Jesus at Nazareth 

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor 
with God and man. 

Chapter 2:36-52 



136 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

§4. THE MANIFESTATION OF JESUS CHRIST 

I. THE COMING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST 

a. The Seven-Fold Date and Prophetic Fulfilment 

3:1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberias Caesar, 1 

* 

Pontius Pilate 2 being governor of Judaea, 

And Herod 3 being tetrarch of Galilee, 
* 

And his brother Philip 4 tetrarch of Ituraea and 
of the region of Trachonitis, 

* 

And Lisanias 6 the tetrarch of Abilene, 
* 

2 Annas and Caiaphas 6 being the high priests, 
* 

The word of God came unto John 7 the son of 
Zacharias in the wilderness. 

* 

3 And he came into all the country about the Jordan, preaching 
the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; 4 as it 
is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, saying: 

* * * 

"The voice of one crying in the wilderness, 
Prepare ye the way of the Lord, 
Make his paths straight. 

5 Every valley shall be filled, 

And every mountain and hill shall be brought low; 
And the crooked shall be made straight, 
And the rough ways shall be made smooth; 

6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God." 8 



b. The Call of John to Repentance 

7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be bap- 
tized by him, "O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to 
flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits 

1 Emperor of Rome, A. D. 12, 14-37. 2 Governor of Judaea, A. D. 26-36. 

3 Tetrarch, B. C. 4-A. D. 39. 4 Tetrarch, B. C. 4-A. D. 34. 

5 Tetrarch, B. C, 4 and after. 6 High Priest, A. D. 18-36. 

7 John lived B. C. 5-A. D. 29. 8 Isa. 40:3f. 

Chapter 3:1-8 



3:9 The Gospel According to Luke 137 

worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, 

We have Abraham as our father; for I say unto you, that God is 

able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 9 And 

now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree 

therefore that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and 

cast into the fire. 

* 

10 And the people asked him, saying, "What shall we do then?" 

11 He answered and saith unto them, "He that hath two coats, 

let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, 

let him do likewise." 

* 

12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, 
"Master, what shall we do?" 13 And he said unto them, "Exact 
no more than that which is appointed you." 



14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, "And 
what shall we do?" And he said unto them, "Do violence to no 
man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.' » 



c. The Seven-Fold Forecast of Christ 

15 And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused 
in their hearts concerning John, whether he were the Christ, or 
not, 16 John answered, saying unto them all: 

* * * 

"I indeed baptize you with water; 
* 

But one mightier than I cometh, the latchet 
of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose : 

* 

He shall baptize you with the Holy Spirit, 
* 

And with fire: 

* 

17 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thor- 
oughly purge his floor, 

* 

And will gather the wheat into his garner; 
* 

But the chaff he will burn with fires un- 
quenchable." 

Chapter 3:9-17 



138 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

de The Imprisonment of John by Herod 

18 And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto 
the people. 19 But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him 
for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which 
Herod had done, 20 added yet this above all, that he shut up 
John in prison. 

II. THE VOICE OF GOD FROM HEAVEN 
The Witness to the Son 

21 And when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, 
that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was 
opened, 22 and the Holy Spirit descended in a bodily shape 
like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said: 

"Thou art my beloved Son: 
In thee I am well pleased." 



HI. THE GENEALOGY OF JESUS 
The Natural Line from Jesus back to God 

23 And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, 
being [as was supposed] the son of Joseph, 
Who was the son of Heli, 

24 Who was the son of Matthat, 
Who was the son of Levi, 
Who was the son of Melchi, 
Who was the son of Jannai, 
Who was the son of Joseph, 

25 Who was the son of Mattathias, 
Who was the son of Amos, 
Who was the son of Nahum, 
Who was the son of Esli, 

Who was the son of Naggai, 

26 Who was the son of Maath, 
Who was the son of Mattathias, 
Who was the son of Semein, 
Who was the son of Josech, 
Who was the son of Joda, 

27 Who was the son of Joanan, 
Who was the son of Rhesa, 
Who was the son of Zerubbabel, 
Who was the son of Shealtiel, 
Who was the son of Neri, 

Chapter 3:18-27 



3:28 The Gospel According to Luke 139 

28 Who was the son of Melchi, 
Who was the son of Addi, 
Who was the son of Cosam, 
Who was the son of Elmadam, 
Who was the son of Er, 

29 Who was the son of Jesus, 
Who was the son of Eliezer, 
Who was the son of Jorim, 
Who was the son of Matthat, 
Who was the son of Levi, 

30 Who was the son of Simeon, 
Who was the son of Judas, 
Who was the son of Joseph, 
Who was the son of Jonam, 
Who was the son of Eliakim, 

31 Who was the son of Melea, 
Who was the son of Menna, 
Who was the son of Mattatha, 
Who was the son of Nathan, 
Who was the son of David, 

32 Who was the son of Jesse, 
Who was the son of Obed, 
Who was the son of Boaz, 
Who was the son of Salmon, 
Who was the son of Nahshon, 

33 Who was the son of Amminadab, 
Who was the son of Ami, 

Who was the son of Hezron, 
Who was the son of Perez, 
Who was the son of Judah, 

34 Who was the son of Jacob, 
Who was the son of Isaac, 
Who was the son of Abraham, 
Who was the son of Terah, 
Who was the son of Nahor, 

35 Who was the son of Zerug, 
Who was the son of Reu, 
Who was the son of Peleg, 
Who was the son of Eber, 
Who was the son of Shelah, 

36 Who was the son of Cainan, 
Who was the son of Arphaxad, 
Who was the son of Shem, 
Who was the son of Noah, 
Who was the son of Lamech, 

37 Who was the son of Methuselah, 
Who was the son of Enoch, 

Chapter 3:28-37 



140 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

Who was the son of Jared, 
Who was the son of Mahalaleel, 
Who was the son of Cainan, 
38 Who was the son of Enos, 
Who was the son of Seth, 
Who was the son of Adam, 
Who was the son of God. 



IV. THE GREAT TEMPTATION OF JESUS 
The Three-Fold Test of the Son of God 

4:1 And Jesus being full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the 
Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, 2 being 
forty days tempted of the devil. 



a. The Temptation of the Prophet of God 

And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were 
ended, he afterward hungered. 3 And the devil said unto him, 
"If thou be the Son of God, command this stone, that it be 
made bread." 4 And Jesus answered him, saying, "It is written, 
that 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of 
God.'" 1 



b. The Temptation of the King of Israel 

5 And the devil, taking him up into a high mountain, showed 
unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 6 
And the devil said unto him, "All this power will I give thee, and 
the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whom- 
soever I will I give it. 7 If thou therefore wilt worship 2 me, 
all shall be thine." 8 And Jesus answered and said unto him, 
"Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, 'Thou shalt worship 
the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.' " 3 



c. The Temptation of the Priest of the People 

9 And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on a pinnacle 
of the temple, and said unto him, "If thou be the Son of God, 
cast thyself down from hence : 10 for it is written, 

* * * 

'He shall give his angels charge over thee, to 
keep thee: 



1 Deut. 8:3. 2 Or fall down before me. 3 Deut. 6:13. 

Chapter 3:38-4:10 



4:11 The Gospel According to Luke 141 

11 And, in their hands they shall bear thee up, 

Lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a 

stone.' " 

* 

12 And Jesus answering said unto him, "It is said, 'Thou shalt 
not tempt the Lord thy God.' " 

* 

13 And when the devil had ended all the temptations, he de- 
parted from him for a season. 



She Jtrst Summary 



14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: 
and there went out a fame of him through all the region round 
about. 15 And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of 
all. 



Part ®too 
The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee 



§1. THE PUBLIC APPEARANCE OF JESUS CHRIST 

I. THE ANNOUNCEMENT AT NAZARETH 

a. The First Sermon in the Synagogue 

And he came to Nazareth, where he was brought up, and, 
as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath 
day, and stood up to read. 17 And there was delivered unto 
him the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when he had opened 
the book, he found the place where it is written: 

* * * 

18 "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, 

Because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel 

to the poor; 
He hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, 
To preach deliverance to the captives, 
And recovering of sight to the blind, 
To set at liberty them that are bruised, 

19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord." 1 

* 

20 And he closed the book, and gave it again to the minister, 
and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the syn- 
agogue were fastened on him. 21 And he began to say unto 
them, "This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears." 22 
And all bear him witness, and wondered at the gracious words 
that proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, "Is not this 
Joseph's son?" 23 And he said unto them, "You will surely say 
unto me this proverb, 'Physician, heal thyself:' whatsoever 
we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country." 
24 And he said, "Verily, I say unto you, 'No prophet is accepted 
in his own country.' 25 But I tell you of a truth, many widows 
were in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut 
up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout 
all the land; 26 but unto none of them was Elijah sent, save 
unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. 27 
And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Elisha the prophet; 

'Isa. 61:lf. 

143 Chapter 4:16-27 



144 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian." 
28 And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, 
were filled with wrath, 29 and rose up, and thrust him out of 
the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their 
city was built, that they might cast him down headlong. 30 
But he passing through the midst of them went his way. 



b. The Ministry at Capernaum 

31 And he came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and 
taught them on the sabbath days. 32 And they were astonished 
at his doctrine: for his word was with power. 33 And in the 
synagogue there was a man, who had a spirit of an unclean devil, 
and cried out with a loud voice, 34 saying, "Let us alone; what 
have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come 
to destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God." 
35 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Hold thy peace, and come 
out of him." And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, 
he came out of him, and hurt him not. 36 And they were all 
amazed, and spoke among themselves, saying, "What a word is 
this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean 
spirits, and they come out." 37 And the fame of him went 
out into every place of the country round about. 



c. The Healing of Simon's Wife's Mother 

38 And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's 
house. And Simon's wife's mother was taken with a great fever; 
and they besought him for her. 39 And he stood over her, and 
rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose 
and ministered unto them. 



d. The Healing of the Multitude 

40 Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick 
with divers diseases brought them unto him: and he laid his 
hands on every one of them, and healed them. 41 And devils 
also came out of many, crying out, and saying, "Thou art Christ 
the Son of God." And he rebuking them suffered them not to 
speak: for they knew that he was Christ. 



II. THE MINISTRY OF JESUS THROUGH GALILEE 
a. The Preaching of the Kingdom of God 

42 And when it was day, he departed and went into a desert 
place : and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed 

Chapter 4:28-42 



4:43 The Gospel According to Luke 145 

him, that he should not depart from them. 43 And he said unto 
them, "I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: 
for therefore am I sent." 44 And he preached in the synagogues 
of Galilee. 



b. The Call of Four Disciples 

5:1 And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon 
him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret, 
2 and saw two ships standing by the lake : but the fishermen were 
gone out of them, and were washing their nets. 3 And he entered 
into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he 
would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and 
taught the people out of the ship. 4 Now when he had left 
speaking, he said unto Simon, "Launch out into the deep, and let 
down your nets for a draught/ ' 5 And Simon answering said 
unto him, "Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken 
nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net." 6 
And when they had done this, they enclosed a great multitude of 
fishes: and their net broke. 7 And they beckoned unto their 
partners, who were in the other ship, that they should come and 
help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they 
began to sink. 8 When Simon saw it, he fell down at Jesus' 
knees, saying, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 
9 For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the 
draught of the fishes which they had taken: 10 and so were 
also James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners 
with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, "Fear not; from hence- 
forth thou shalt catch men." 11 And when they had brought 
their ship to land, they forsook all, and followed him. 



c. The Healing of a Leper 

12 And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold 
a man full of leprousy: who seeing Jesus, fell on his face, and be- 
sought him, saying, "Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me 
clean." 13 And he put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, 
"I will: be thou clean." And immediately the leprousy departed 
from him. 14 And he charged him to tell no man: "but go, and 
show thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according 
as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them." 15 But so 
much the more went there a fame abroad of him : and great mul- 
titudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their 
infirmities. 16 And he withdrew himself into the wilderness 
and prayed. 

Chapter 4:43-5 :U 



146 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

m. THE FORGIVENESS AND HEALING OF A PARALYTIC 
The Charge of Blasphemy Against Jesus 

17 And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, 
that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, 
who came out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jeru- 
salem: and the power of the Lord was present to heal them. 18 
And, behold, men brought in a bed a man who was taken with a 
palsy; and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him 
before him. 19 And when they could not find by what way they 
might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon 
the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch 
into the midst before Jesus. 20 And when he saw their faith, 
he saith unto him, "Man, thy sins are forgiven thee." 21 And 
the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, "Who is 
this that speakest blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but 
God alone?" 22 But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, 
he answering said unto them, "What reason ye in your hearts? 
23 Which is easier, to say, 'Thy sins are forgiven thee;' or to 
say, Rise up and walk? 24 But that you may know that the 
Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins (he saith un- 
to the sick of the palsy), I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy 
couch, and go into thy house." 25 And immediately he rose 
up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed 
to his own house, glorifying God. 26 And they were all amazed, 
and they glorified God, and were filled with fear saying, "We 
have seen strange things to-day." 



IV. THE CALL OF LEVI THE PUBLICAN 
a. The Call and Obedience of Levi 

27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, 
named Levi, sitting at the receipt of customs: and he said unto 
him, "Follow me." 28 And he left all, rose up, and followed 
him. 



b. The Feast of Levi for Jesus 

29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and 
there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat 
down with them. 30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured 
against the disciples, saying, "Why do you eat and drink with 
publicans and sinners?" 31 And Jesus answering said unto 
them, "They that are whole need not a physician; but they 
that are sick. 32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners 
to repentance." 

Chapter 5:17-32 



5:33 The Gospel According to Luke 147 

c. The Question of Fasting 

33 And they said unto him, "Why do the disciples of John 
fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the 
Pharisees; but thine eat and drink?" 34 And he said unto them, 
"Can you make the children of the bridechamber fast, while 
the bridegroom is with them? 35 But the days will come when 
the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall 
they fast in those days." 

d. The Parable of the Old and the New 

36 And he spoke also a parable unto them: "No man put- 
teth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then 
both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of 
the new agreeth not with the old. 37 And no man putteth new 
wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, 
and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. 38 But new wine 
must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved. 49 No 
man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he 
saith, 'The old is better.' " 



§2. THE LORDSHIP OF JESUS 

THE OPPOSITION OF THE PHARISEES TO JESUS 

a. The Plucking of Corn on the Sabbath 

6: 1 And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, 
that he went through the corn fields; and his disciples plucked 
the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands. 2 And 
certain of the Pharisees said unto them, "Why do ye that which 
it is not lawful to do on the sabbath days?" 3 And Jesus answer- 
ing them said, "Have you not read so much as this, what David 
did, when himself was an hungered, and they that were with him; 
4 how he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the 
shewbread, and gave also to them that were with him; which 
it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone?" 5 And he said 
unto them, that the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. 



b. The Healing of the Withered Hand 

6 And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that he entered 
into the synagogue and taught : and there was a man whose right 
hand was withered. 7 And the scribes and Pharisees watched 
him, whether he would heal on the sabbath day; that they might 
find an accusation against him. 8 But he knew their thoughts, 
and said to the man who had the withered hand, "Rise up, and 
stand forth in the midst." And he arose and stood forth. 9 

Chapter 5:33-6:9 



148 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

Then said Jesus unto them, "I will ask you one thing: Is it 
lawful on the sabbath days to do good or to do evil? to save life, 
or to destroy it?" 10 And looking round about upon them 
all, he said unto the man, "Stretch forth thy hand." And he 
did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other. 11 And 
they were filled with madness; and communed with one another 
what they might do to Jesus. 



§3. THE ORGANIZATION OF APOSTLES 
I. THE CHOICE OF THE TWELVE 

The Night in Prayer 

12 And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into 
a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. 
13 And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples, and of 
them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles: 14 Simon, 
whom he also named Peter, and Andrew his brother, James and 
John, Philip and Bartholomew, 15 Matthew and Thomas, James 
the son of Alphseus, and Simon called the Zealot, 16 and Judas 
the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot [who also was the traitor]. 



II. THE FOLLOWING MULTITUDES 
The Ministry to the People from All Syria 

17 And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and 
the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people 
out of all Judaea and Jerusalem, and from the seacoast of Tyre 
and Sidon, who came to hear him, and to be healed of their dis- 
eases ; 18 and they that were vexed with unclean spirits : and they 
were healed. 19 And the whole multitude sought to touch 
him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all. 



III. THE GREAT SERMON IN THE PLAIN 
The Seven-Fold Address 

20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: 

* 

"Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of 
God. 21 Blessed are you that hunger now: for 
you shall be filled. Blessed are you that weep now: 
for you shall laugh. 22 Blessed are you, when 
men shall hate you, and when they shall separate 
you from their company, and shall reproach you, 
and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's 
sake. 23 Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: 

Chapter 6:10-23 



6:23 The Gospel According to Luke 149 

for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in 
the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets."* 

* * 

24 "But woe unto you that are rich! for you have 
received your consolation. 25 Woe unto you that 
are full! for you shall hunger. Woe unto you that 
laugh now! for you shall mourn and weep. 26 Woe 
unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for 
so did their fathers to the false prophets." 
* * * 

27 "But I say unto you that hear, Love your 
enemies, do good to them that hate you, 28 bless 
them that curse you, and pray for them that despite- 
fully use you. 29 And unto him that smiteth thee 
on the one cheek, offer also the other; and him that 
taketh away thy cloke, forbid not to take thy coat 
also. 30 Give to every man that asketh of thee; 
and of him that taketh away thy goods, ask them 
not again. 31 And as you would that men should 
do to you, do ye also to them likewise. 32 For if 
you love them that love you, what thanks have you? 
for sinners also love those that love them. 33 And 
if you do good to them that do good to you, what 
thanks have you? for sinners also do even the same. 
34 And if you lend to them of whom you hope to 
receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend 
to sinners, to receive as much again. 35 But love 
ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for 
nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and 
you shall be the children of the Highest: for he is 
kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. 36 Be 
ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merci- 
ful. ** ** 

37 "Judge not, and you shall not be judged: con- 
demn not, and you shall not be condemned: forgive, 
and you shall be forgiven: 38 give, and it shall be 
given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and 
shaken together, and running over, shall men give 
into your bosom. For with the same measure that 
you mete withal it shall be measured to you again." 

* 

39 And he spoke a parable unto them: 

"Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both 
fall unto the ditch? 40 The disciple is not above 

Chapter 6:24-40 



150 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as 
his master. 41 And why beholdest thou the mote 
that is in thy brother's eye, and perceivest not the 
beam that is in thine own eye? 42 Either how 
canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull 
out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself 
beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 
Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine 
own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out 
the mote that is in thy brother's eye." 
$$ $$ #* 

43 "For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt 
fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good 
fruit. 44 For every tree is known by its own fruit. 
For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a 
bramble bush gather they grapes. 45 A good man 
out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth 
that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil 
treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is 
evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth 
speaketh. 

46 "And why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not 
the things that I command? 47 Whosoever cometh 
to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I 
will show you to whom he is like: 48 He is like a 
man who built a house, and digged deep, and laid 
the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, 
the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and 
could not shake it : for it was founded upon a rock. 
49 But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man 
that without a foundation built a house upon the 
earth ; against which the stream did beat vehemently, 
and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house 
was great." 



She S*t0tt& Summary 



7:1 Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience 
of the people, he entered into Capernaum. 



Part ®bm 
The Ministry in Galilee Concluded 



§1. THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS CHRIST 

I. THE HEALING OF THE SERVANT OF A CENTURION 

The Faith of a Gentile Soldier 

And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, 
was sick, and ready to die. 3 And when he heard of Jesus, he 
sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he 
would come and heal his servant. 4 And when they came to 
Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, that he was worthy 
for whom he should do this: 5 "for he loveth our nation, and 
he hath built us a synagogue." 6 Then Jesus went with them, 
And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion 
sent friends to him, saying unto him, "Lord, trouble not thy- 
self: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my 
roof; 7 wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come 
unto thee; but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed. 
8 For I also am a man set under authority, having under me 
soldiers, and I say unto one, 'Go,' and he goeth; and to another, 
'Come,' and he cometh; and to my servant, 'Do this,' and he 
doeth it" 9 And when Jesus heard these sayings, he marvelled 
at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that 
followed him, "I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, 
no, not in Israel." 10 And they that were sent, returning to 
the house, found the servant whole that had been sick. 



H. THE RAISING OF A WIDOW'S SON 
The Widespread Report of Jesus 

11 And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city 
called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and many 
people. 12 Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, 
behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his 
mother, and she was a widow; and many people of the city were 
with her. 13 And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion 
on her, and said unto her, "Weep not." 14 And he came and 
touched the bier: and they that bore him stood still. And he 

151 Chapter 7:2-14 



152 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

said, "Young man, I say unto thee, Arise." 15 And he that 
was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to 
his mother. 16 And there came a fear on all: and they glorified 
God, saying that a great prophet is risen among us; and, that 
God hath visited his people. 17 And this rumour of him went 
forth throughout all Judasa, and throughout all the region round 
about. 



III. THE INQUIRY OF JOHN THE BAPTIST 

The Seven-Fold Witness to Christ 

18 And the disciples of John showed him of all these things. 
19 And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to 
Jesus, saying, "Art thou he that should come? or look we for 
another?" 20 When the men were come unto them, they said, 
"John the Baptist hath sent unto thee, saying, 'Art thou he 
that should come? or look we for another?' " 21 And in that 
same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and 
of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight. 22 
Then Jesus answering said unto them: 

"Go your way, and tell John what things you 
have seen and heard: how that, 

* 

The blind see, 

The lame walk, 

* 

The lepers are cleansed, 
* 

The deaf hear, 

* 

The dead are raised, 
* 

To the poor the gospel is preached. 
* 

23 And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be of- 
fended in me." 



IV. THE WITNESS OF JESUS TO JOHN 
The Greatness of John the Baptist 

24 And when the messengers of John were departed, he began 
to speak unto the people concerning John: "What went you out 
into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind? 

Chapter 7:15-24 



7:25 The Gospel According to Luke 153 

25 But what went you out for to see? A man clothed in soft 
raiment? Behold, they that are gorgeously apparelled, and 
live delicately, are in king's courts. 26 But what went you 
out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much 
more than a prophet. 27 This is he of whom it is written: 

* * * 

"Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, 
Who shall prepare thy way before thee." 1 

* 

28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of woman, 
there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he 
that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. 29 And 
all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, 
being baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees 
and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, 
being not baptized of him." 31 And the Lord said, "Where- 
unto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what 
are they like? 32 They are like unto children sitting in the 
marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, "We have 
piped unto you, and you have not danced ; we have mourned to you, 
and you have not wept. 33 For John the Baptist came neither 
eating bread nor drinking wine; and you say, 'He hath a devil.' 
34 The Son of man is come eating and drinking, and you say, 
'Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans 
and sinners!' 35 But wisdom is justified of all her children." 



§2. THE RECOGNITION OF JESUS 

I. THE ANOINTING IN A PHARISEE'S HOUSE 
The Parable of the Two Debtors 

36 And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat 
with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down 
to meat. 37 And, behold, a woman in the city, who was a sin- 
ner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's 
house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 38 and stood at 
his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with 
tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed 
his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. 39 Now when 
the Pharisee who had bidden him saw it, he spoke within him- 
self, saying, "This man, if he were a prophet, would have known 
who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for 
she is a sinner." 40 And Jesus answering said unto him, "Simon, 
I have somewhat to say unto thee." And he saith, "Master, 



1 Mai. 3:1. 

Chapter 7:25-40 



154 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

say on." 41 "There was a certain creditor who had two debtors: 
the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 42 And 
when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. 
Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?" 43 Simon 
answered and said, "I suppose that he to whom he forgave most." 
And he said unto him, "Thou hast rightly judged." 44 And 
he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, "Seest thou this 
woman? I entered into thy house; thou gavest me no water 
for my feet : but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped 
them with the hairs of her head. 45 Thou gavest me no lass: 
but this woman since the time I came in, hath not ceased to kiss 
my feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this 
woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Wherefore I 
say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she 
loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little." 
48 And he said unto her, "Thy sins are forgiven." 49 And 
they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, 
"Who is this that forgiveth sins also?" 50 And he said to the 
woman, "Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace." 



II. THE PREACHING TOUR OF GALILEE 
The Ministering Women 

8 : 1 And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout 
every city and village, preaching and showing the glad tidings 
of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him, 2 and 
certain women, who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, 
Mary called Magdalene out of whom went seven devils, 3 and 
Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and 
many others, who ministered unto him of their substance. 



in. THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER 
a. The Seed is the Word of God 

4 And when many people were gathered together, and were 
come to him out of every city, he spoke by a parable: 5 "A 
sower went out to sow his seed : and as he sowed, some fell by the 
wayside; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air de- 
voured it. 6 And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was 
sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. 7 
And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, 
and choked it. 8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, 
and bare fruit an hundredfold." And when he had said these 
things, he cried, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." 

Chapter 7:41-8:8 



8:9 The Gospel According to Luke 155 

b. The Exposition of the Parable 

9 And his disciples asked him, saying, "What might this 
parable be?" 10 And he said, "Unto you it is given to know 
the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; 
that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not under- 
stand. 11 Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of 
God. 12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh 
the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they 
should believe and be saved. 13 They on the rock are they who 
when they hear receive the word with joy; and these have no 
root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall 
away. 14 And they that fell among thorns are they, who when 
they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and 
pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. 15 But 
that on the good ground are they, who in an honest and good heart, 
having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. 
16 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a 
vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, 
that they who enter in may see the light. 17 For nothing is 
secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, 
that shall not be known and come abroad. 18 Take heed there- 
fore how you hear; for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; 
and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which 
he seemeth to have." 



IV. THE TRUE KINDRED OF JESUS 
The Hearing and Doing of the Word 

19 Then came to him his mother and his brothers, and could 
not come to him for the press. 20 And it was told him by certain 
who said, "Thy mother and thy brothers stand without, desiring 
to see thee." 21 And he answered and said unto them, "My 
mother and my brothers are these that hear the word of God, 
and do it." 



§3. THE GREAT POWER OF JESUS 

I. THE STILLING OF THE STORM ON THE LAKE 

The Amazement of the Disciples 

22 Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into 
a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, "Let us go over 
unto the other side of the lake." And they launched forth. 
23 And as they sailed he fell asleep : and there came down a storm 
of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in 
jeopardy. 24 And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, 

Chapter 8:9-24 



156 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

1 'Master, Master, we perish.' ' Then he arose, and rebuked the 
wind and the raging of the water : and they ceased, and there was 
a great calm. 25 And he said unto them, ' 'Where is your faith?" 
And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, "What 
manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and 
water, and they obey him." 



II. THE SOJOURN OF JESUS IN GADARA 
The Healing of a Demoniac 

26 And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which 
is over against Galilee. 27 And when he went forth to land, 
there met him out of the city a certain man, who had devils 
long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house, but 
in the tombs. 28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell 
down before him, and with a loud voice said, "What have I to do 
with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God most high? I beseech thee, 
torment me not." 29 [For he commanded the unclean spirit 
to come out of the man. For oftentimes it had caught him: 
and he was kept bound with chains and in fetters; and he brake 
the bands, and was driven of the devil into the wilderness]. 30 
And Jesus asked him, saying, "What is thy name?" And he 
said, "Legion:" because many devils were entered into him. 
31 And they besought him that he would not command them to 
go out into the deep. 32 And there was there a herd of many 
swine feeding on the mountain: and they besought him that he 
would suffer them to enter into them. And he suffered them. 
33 Then went the devils out of the man, and entered into the 
swine; and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the 
lake, and were choked. 34 When they that fed them saw what 
was done, they fled, and went and told it in the city and in the 
country. 35 Then they went out to see what was done; and 
came to Jesus, and found the man, out of whom the devils were 
departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed, and in his right 
mind : and they were afraid. 36 They also who saw it told them 
by what means he that was possessed of the devils was healed. 
31 Then the whole multitude of the country of the Gadarenes 
round about besought him to depart from them; for they were 
taken with great fear: and he went up into the ship, and returned 
back again. 38 Now the man out of whom the devils were 
departed besought him that he might be with him: but Jesus 
sent him away, saying, 39 "Return to thine own house, and show 
how great things God hath done unto thee." And he went his 
way, and published throughout the whole city how great things 
Jesus had done unto him. 

Chapter 8:25-39 



8:40 The Gospel According to Luke 157 

III. THE RETURN OF JESUS INTO GALILEE 
a. The Request of Jairus the Ruler 

40 And it came to pass, that, when Jesus was returned, the 
people gladly received him: for they were all waiting for him. 41 
And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler 
of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus' feet, and besought 
him that he would come into his house : 42 for he had one only 
daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. 



b. The Faith of an Invalid Woman 

But as he went the people thronged him. 43 And a woman 1 
having an issue of blood twelve years, who had spent all her 
living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any, 44 came 
behind him, and touched the border of his garment; and im- 
mediately her issue of blood staunched. 45 And Jesus said, 
"Who touched me?" When all denied, Peter and they that were 
with him said, "Master, the multitude throng thee and press 
thee, and sayest thou, 'Who touched me?'" 46 And Jesus said, 
"Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone 
out of me." 47 And when the woman saw that she was not hid, 
she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared 
unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched 
him, and how she was healed immediately. 48 And he said 
unto her, "Daughter, 2 be of good comfort: thy faith hath made 
thee whole; go in peace." 



c. The Restoration of Jairus* Daughter 

49 While he yet spoke, there cometh one from the ruler of 
the synagogue's house, saying to him, "Thy daughter is dead; 
trouble not the Master." 50 But when Jesus heard it, he an- 
swered him, saying, "Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made 
whole." 51 And when he came into the house, he suffered no 
man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father 
and the mother of the maiden. 52 And all wept, and bewailed 
her: but he said, "Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth." 53 
And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. 54 
And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called; 
saying, "Maid, arise." 55 And her spirit came again, and she 
arose straightway: and he commanded them to give her meat. 
56 And her parents were astonished: but he charged them that 
they should tell no man what was done. 

1 Tradition says her name was Veronica. 

2 The only record of our Lord's use of this tender name to a woman. 

Chapter 8:40-56 



158 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

IV. THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES 
The Seven-Fold Instruction of Jesus 

9 : 1 And he called his twelve disciples together, and gave 
them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. 
2 And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal 
the sick. 3 And he said unto them: 

* * * 

"Take nothing for your journey, 
* 
Neither staves, 

Nor scrip, 

* 

Neither bread, 

Neither money; 

Neither have two coats apiece. 
* 

4 And whatsoever house you enter into, there 
abide, and thence depart. 

* 

5 And whosoever shall not receive you, when you 
go out of the city, shake off the very dust from your 
feet for a testimony against them." 

* 

6 And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching 
the gospel, and healing every where. 



b. The Desire of Herod to See Jesus 

7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: 
and he was perplexed, because it was said by some, that John 
was risen from the dead; 8 and by some, that Elijah had ap- 
peared; and by others, that one of the old prophets was risen 
again. 9 And Herod said, John have I beheaded: but who is 
this, of whom I hear such things?" And he desired to see him. 



c. The Return of the Apostles 

10 And the apostles, when they had returned, told him all 
that they had done, And he took them, and went aside privately 
into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. 11 

Chapter 9:1-11 



9:12 The Gospel According to Luke 159 

And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he re- 
ceived them, and spoke unto them of the kingdom of God, and 
healed them that had need of healing. 



d. The Feeding of the Five Thousand 

12 And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, 
and said unto him: "Send the multitude away, that they may go 
into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get 
victuals: for we are here in a desert place. 13 But he said unto 
them, "Give ye them to eat." And they said, "We have no 
more than five loaves and two fishes, except we should go and buy 
meat for all this people." 14 For there were about five thousand 
men. And he said to his disciples, "Make them sit down by 
fifties in a company." 15 And they did so, and made them all 
sit down. 16 Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes, 
and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake, and gave 
to the disciples, to set before the multitude. 17 And they did 
eat, and were filled: and there were taken up of the fragments 
that remained to them twelve baskets. 



§4. THE GLORY OF JESUS CHRIST 

I. THE GREAT CONFESSION OF SIMON PETER 
The Cross and the Kingdom of God 

18 And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples 
were with him: and he asked them, saying, "Who say the people 
that I am?" 19 They answering said, "John the Baptist; but 
some say, Elijah; and others say, that one of the prophets is 
risen again." 20 He said unto them, "But who say ye that I 
am?" Peter answering said, "The Christ of God." 21 And he 
straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man this 
thing, 22 saying, "The Son of man must suffer many things, 
and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and 
be slain, and be raised the third day." 23 And he said to them 

all: 

* * * 

"If any man will come after me, let him deny 

himself, 

* 

And take up his cross daily, and follow me. 
24 For whosoever will save his life, shall lose it; 

Chapter 9:12-24 



160 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

But whosoever will lose his life for my sake, 

the same shall save it. 

* 

25 For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the 
whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? 

* 

26 For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and 
of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, 
when he shall come in his own glory, and in his 
Father's, and of the holy angels. 

* 

27 But I tell you of a truth, there are some stand- 
ing here, who shall not taste of death, till they see 
the kingdom of God." 



II. THE TRANSFIGURATION OF JESUS 
The Voice of God from Heaven 

28 And it came to pass about eight days after these sayings, 
he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain 
to pray. 29 And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance 
was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. 30 And, 
behold, there talked with him two men, who were Moses and 
Elijah: 31 who appeared in glory, and spoke of his decease 
which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 But Peter and they 
that were with him were heavy with sleep; and when they were 
awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. 
33 And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said 
unto Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make 
three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for 
Elijah," not knowing what he said. 34 And while he thus spoke, 
there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as 
they entered into the cloud. 35 And there came a voice out of 
the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son: hear him." 36 And 
when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept 
it close, and told no man in those days any of those things that 
they had seen. 



HI. THE HEALING OF THE DEMONIAC 
The Mighty Power of God 

37 And it came to pass, that on the next day, when they were 
come down from the hill, many people met him. 38 And, be- 
hold, a man of the company cried out, saying, "Master, I beseech 

Chapter 9:25-38 



9:39 The Gospel According to Luke 161 

thee, look upon my son; for he is my only child. 39 And, lo, 
a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth 
him so that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth 
from him. 40 And I besought thy disciples to cast him out; 
and they could not." 41 And Jesus answering said, "O faithless 
and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you, and suffer 
you? Bring thy son hither/' 42 And as he was coming, the 
devil threw him down, and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the 
unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to 
his father. 43 And they were all amazed at the mighty power 
of God. 



IV. THE FORECAST OF THE CRUCIFIXION 

a. The Fear of the Disciples 

But while they wondered every one at all things that Jesus did, 
he said unto his disciples, 44 "Let these sayings sink down 
into your ears: for the Son of man shall be delivered into the 
hands of men." 45 But they understood not this saying, and 
it was hid from them, so that they perceived it not: and they 
feared to ask him of that saying. 



b. The Question of Rank 

46 Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them 
should be greatest. 47 And Jesus, perceiving the thought of 
their heart, took a child, and set him by him, 48 and said unto 
them, "Whosoever shall receive this child in my name, receiveth 
me : and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth him that sent me : 
for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great." 



c. The Friends of Jesus 

49 And John answered and said, "Master, we saw one casting 
out devils in thy name; and we forbade him, because he followeth 
not with us." 50 And Jesus said unto him, "Forbid him not: 
for he that is not against us is for us." 



She Shfrir ^utmnary 



51 And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should 
be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem. 



Part IFottr 
The Great Journey to Jerusalem 



§1. THE COMING OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD 

I. THE REJECTION OF THE SAMARITANS 
The Mission of the Son of Man 

And he sent messengers before his face: and they went and 
entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. 
53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though 
he would go to Jerusalem. 54 And when his disciples James 
and John saw this, they said, "Lord, wilt thou that we command 
fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as 
Elijah did?" 1 55 But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, 
"You know not what manner of spirit you are of. 56 For the 
Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them'' 
And they went to another village. 



H. THE WOULD-BE FOLLOWERS OF JESUS 
The Urgency of the Kingdom 

57 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain 
man said unto him, "Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou 
goest." 58 And Jesus said unto him, "Foxes have holes, and 
the birds of the air have nests ; but the Son of man hath not where 
to lay his head." 

59 And he said unto another, "Follow me." But he said, 
"Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father." 60 Jesus 
said unto him, "Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and 
preach the kingdom of God." 

61 And another also said, "Lord, I will follow thee; but let 
me first go bid them farewell, that are at home at my house." 
62 And Jesus said unto him, "No man, having put his hand to 
the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." 

1 II Kings, l:10f. 

163 Chapter 9:52-62 



164 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

m. THE MISSION OF THE SEVENTY 

a. The Seven-Fold Address 

10 : 1 After these things the Lord appointed other seventy 

also and sent them two and two before his face into every city 

and place, whither he himself would come. 2 Therefore said 

he unto them : 

* * * 

"The harvest truly is great, but the labourers 
are few: pray ye therefore the lord of the harvest, 
that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. 

* 

3 "Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as 

lambs among wolves. 

* * 

4 "Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes. 

"And salute no man by the way. 
** ** 

5 "And into whatsoever house you enter, first 
say, Peace be to this house. 6 And if the son of 
peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it ; if not, 
it shall turn to you again. 7 And in the same 
house remain, eating and drinking such things as 
they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. 

** * ** 

"Go not from house to house. 

8 "And into whatsoever city you enter, and they 
receive you, eat such things as are set before you: 

9 and heal the sick that are therein, and say unto 
them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. 

10 But into whatsoever city you enter, and they 
receive you not, go your ways out into the streets 
of the same, and say, 11 Even the very dust of 
your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off 
against you: notwithstanding, be ye sure of this, 
that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. 
12 But I say unto you that it shall be more tolerable 
in that day for Sodom, than for that city. 

13 "Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, 
Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in 
Tyre and Sidon that have been done in you, they 

Chapter 10:1-13 



10:14 The Gospel According to Luke 165 

would a great while ago have repented, sitting in 
sackcloth and ashes. 14 But it shall be more toler- 
able for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for 
you. 15 And thou, Capernaum, that art exalted 
to heaven, shall be thrust down to hell. 

* 

16 "He that heareth you heareth me; and he 
that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that 
despiseth me despiseth him that sent me." 



b. The Return of the Seventy 

17 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, "Lord, 
even the devils are subject unto us through thy name." 18 
And he said unto them, "I beheld Satan as lightning fall from 
heaven. 19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on ser- 
pents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and 
nothing shall by any means hurt you. 20 Notwithstanding, in 
this rejoice not, That the spirits are subject unto you; but rather 
rejoice, because your names are written in heaven." 



c. The Thanksgiving of Jesus 

21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, "I thank 
thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth; that thou hast hid 
these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them 
unto babes: even so, Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight." 

* 

22 "All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man 
knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, 
but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him." 

* 

23 And he turned unto his disciples, and said privately, 
"Blessed are the eyes that see the things that you see: 24 for 
I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see 
those things that you see, and have not seen them; and to hear 
those things that you hear, and have not heard them" 



d. The Parable of the Good Samaritan 

25 And behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, 
saying, "Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" 26 
He said unto him, "What is written in the law? how readest 

Chapter 10:14-26 



166 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

thou?" 27 And he answering said, "Thou shalt love the Lord 
thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all 
thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thy- 
self." 28 And he said unto him, "Thou hast answered right: 
this do, and thou shalt live." 29 But he, willing to justify 
himself, said unto Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" 30 And 
Jesus answering, said, "A certain man went down from Jerusalem 
to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his raiment, 
and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31 
And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and 
when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 And like- 
wise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, 
and passed by on the other side. 33 But a certain Samaritan, 
as he journeyed, came where he was; and when he saw him, he 
had compassion on him, 34 and went to him, and bound up 
his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, 
and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 And on 
the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave 
them to the host, and said unto him, 'Take care of him: and what- 
soever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.' 
36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him 
that fell among the thieves?" 37 And he said, "He that showed 
mercy on him." Then said Jesus unto him, "Go, and do thou 
likewise." 

IV. THE HOME OF MARTHA AND MARY 
The One Thing Needful 

38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into 
a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received 
him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who 
sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. 40 But Martha was 
cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, "Lord, 
dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? 
bid her therefore that she help me." 41 And Jesus answered 
and said unto her, "Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled 
about many things: 42 but one thing is needful: and Mary 
hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from 
her." 



§2. THE PRAYER FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD 

I. THE INSTRUCTION OF THE DISCIPLES 

The Seven-Fold Prayer to the Father 

11:1 And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain 
place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, "Lord, 

Chapter 10:27-11:1 



11:2 The Gospel According to Luke 167 

teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples." 2 And he 
said unto them, "When you pray, say: 

* * * 

Our Father who art in heaven, 

* 
Hallowed be thy name. 

* 

Thy kingdom come. 

* 

Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. 

* 

3 Give us this day our daily bread. 

* 

4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive 
every one that is indebted to us. 

* 

And lead us not into temptation; 

* 
But deliver us from evil." 



II. THE ENCOURAGEMENT TO PRAYER 
The Gift of the Holy Spirit 

5 And he said unto them, "Which of you shall have a friend, 

and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, 

lend me three loaves; 6 for a friend of mine in his journey is 

come to me, and I have nothing to set before him. 7 And he 

from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is 

now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and 

give thee. 8 I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give 

him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he 

will rise and give him as many as he needeth. 9 And I say unto 

you: 

* * * 

Ask, and it shall be given you ; 
Seek, and you shall find; 
Knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 
10 For every one that asketh, receiveth; 
And he that seeketh, findeth; 
And to him that knocketh, it shall be opened. 
* 

11 If a man shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will 
he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him 

Chapter 11:2-11 



168 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

a serpent? 12 Or if he shall ask for an egg, will he offer him a 
scorpion? 13 If you then, being evil, know how to give good 
gifts to your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father 
give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?" 



IH. THE BLASPHEMY OF THE PHARISEES 
The Healing of a Dumb Demoniac 

14 And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb. And it 
came to pass, when the devil was gone out, the dumb spoke: 
and the people wondered. 15 But some of them said, "He 
casteth out devils through Beelzebub the chief of the devils." 

16 And others tempting him, sought of him a sign from heaven. 

17 But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them: 

* 

"Every kingdom divided against itself is brought 

to desolation; and a house divided against itself 

falleth. 

* * 

18 "If Satan also be divided against himself, 
how shall his kingdom stand? because you say that 
I cast out devils through Beelzebub. 

* * * 

19 "And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by 
whom do your sons cast them out? therefore shall 
they be your judges. 

20 "But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, 
no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you. 

** * ** 

21 "When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, 
his goods are in peace: 22 but when a stronger 
than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, 
he taketh from him all his armour wherein he 
trusted, and divideth his spoils. 

23 "He that is not with me is against me: and 
he that gathereth not with me scattereth. 

24 "When the unclean spirit is gone out of a 
man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; 
and finding none, he saith, 'I will turn to my house 
whence I came out.' 25 And when he cometh, he 
findeth it swept and garnished. 26 Then goeth 

Chapter 11:12-26 



11:27 The Gospel According to Luke 169 

he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more 
wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell 
there: and the last state of that man is worse than 
the first." 



IV. THE PRAISE OF A WOMAN 
The Blessedness of Obeying the Word 

27 And it came to pass, as he spoke these things, a certain 
woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, 
"Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps that thou 
hast sucked." 28 But he said, "Yea, rather, blessed are they 
that hear the word of God, and keep it." 



§3. THE JUDGMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD 

I. THE PRESENT EVIL GENERATION 

The Seven-Fold Address 

29 And when the people were gathered thick together, he 

began to say : 

* 

"This is an evil generation: they seek a sign; and 
there shall be no sign given it, but the sign of Jonah 
the prophet. 30 For as Jonah was a sign unto the 
Ninevites, so shall the Son of man be to this genera- 
tion. 

* * 

31 "The Queen of the South shall rise up in the 
judgment with the men of this generation, and 
condemn them: for she came from the utmost part 
of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; 1 and, 
behold, a greater than Solomon is here. 

32 "The men of Nineveh shall rise up in the 
judgment with this generation, and shall condemn 
it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; 
and, behold, a greater than Jonah is here. 

** ** 

33 "No man, when he hath lighted a candle, 
putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, 
but on a candlestick, that they that come in may 
see the light. 



1 1 Kings, 10:lf. 

Chapter 11:27-33 



170 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 



34 "The light of the body is the eye: therefore 
when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full 
of light : but when thine eye is evil, thy whole body 
also is full of darkness. 

*# *# ** 

35 "Take heed therefore that the light that is in 
thee be not darkness. 

36 "If the whole body therefore be full of light, 
having no part dark, the whole shall be full of 
light, as when the bright shining of a candle doth 
give thee light." 



H. THE CONDEMNATION OF THE PHARISEES AND LAWYERS 
The Seven-Fold Address of Jesus 

37 And as he spoke, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine 
with him; and he went in and sat down to meat. 38 And when 
the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed 
before dinner. 39 And the Lord said unto him: 

* 

"Now do you Pharisees make clean the outside 
of the cup and the platter; but your inward part 
is full of ravening and wickedness. 40 Ye fools, 
did not he that made that which is without, make 
that which is within also? 41 But rather give 
alms of such things as you have; and, behold, all 
things are clean unto you. 

* * 

42 "But woe unto you, Pharisees! for you tithe 

mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass 

over judgment and the love of God: these ought 

you to have done, and not to have left the other 

undone. 

* * * 

43 "Woe unto you, Pharisees! for you love the 
uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in 
the markets. 

44 "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypo- 
crites! for you are as graves that appear not, and 
the men that walk over them are not aware of them." 

Chapter 11:34-44 



11:45 The Gospel According to Luke 171 



45 Then answered one of the lawyers, and said unto him, 
"Master, thus saying thou reproachest us also." 46 And he 
said: 

"Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for you lade 
men with burdens grievous to be borne, and you 
yourself touch not the burdens with one of your 
fingers. 

47 "Woe unto you! for you build the sepulchres of 
the prophets, and your fathers killed them. 48 
Truly you bear witness that you allow the deeds of 
your fathers: for they indeed killed them, and you 
build their sepulchres. 49 Therefore also said the 
wisdom of God, T will send them prophets and 
apostles, and some of them they will slay and perse- 
cute:' 50 that the blood of all the prophets, that 
was shed from the foundation of the world, may be 
required of this generation; 51 from the blood of 
Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, who perished be- 
tween the altar and the temple: verily I say unto 
you, It shall be required of this generation. 

52 "Woe unto you, lawyers! for you have taken 
away the key of knowledge: you entered not in 
yourselves, and them that were entering in you 
hindered." * 

53 And as he said these things unto them, the scribes and 
the Pharisees began to urge him vehemently, and to provoke 
him to speak of many things: 54 laying in wait for him, and 
seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might 
accuse him. 



in. THE WARNING AGAINST PHARISEEISM 
The Seven-Fold Address 

12: 1 And in the mean time, when there was gathered together 
an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trod 
one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all: 

* 

"Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which 
is hypocrisy. * * 

2 "For there is nothing covered, that shall not 
be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. 

Chapter 11:45-12:2 



172 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

3 Therefore whatsoever you have spoken in dark- 
ness, shall be heard in the light; and that which 
you have spoken in the ear in closets shall be pro- 
claimed upon the housetops. 
* * * 

4 "And I say unto you, my friends, be not afraid 
of them that kill the body, and after that have no 
more that they can do. 5 But I will forewarn you 
whom you shall fear : Fear him, who after he hath 
killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto 
you, fear him. 

6 "Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, 
and not one of them is forgotten before God? 7 
But even the very hairs of your head are all 
numbered. Fear not therefore: you are of more 
value than many sparrows. 

8 "Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall con- 
fess me before men, him shall the Son of man confess 
before the angels of God; 9 but he that denieth 
me before men, shall be denied before the angels of 
God. 

10 "And whosoever shall speak a word against the 
Son of man, it shall be forgiven him; but unto him 
that blasphemeth against the Holy Spirit, it shall 
not be forgiven. 

1 1 ' 'And when they bring you into the synagogues, 
and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no 
thought how or what you shall answer, or what you 
shall say: 12 for the Holy Spirit shall teach you 
in the same hour what you ought to say." 



IV. THE DISCOURSE ON WORLDLY-MINDEDNESS 
a. The Seven-Fold Address 

13 And one of the company said unto him, "Master, speak to 
my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me." 14 And he 
said unto him, "Man, who made me a judge or a divider over 
you?" 15 And he said unto them, "Take heed, and beware of 
covetousness : for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance 
of the things which he possesseth." 16 And he spoke a parable 
unto them, saying: 

Chapter 12:3-16 



12: 17 The Gospel According to Luke 173 

Prologue x 

"The ground of a certain rich man brought forth 
plentifully: 17 and he thought within himself, 
saying, 'What shall I do, because I have no where 
to bestow my fruits?' 18 And he said, 'This will I 
do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; 
and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. 
19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much 
goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, 
drink, and be merry.' 20 But God said unto him, 
'Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of 
thee; then whose shall those things be, which thou 
hast provided?' 21 So is he that layeth up treasure 
for himself, and is not rich toward God." 

* 

22 And he said unto his disciples : 

* 

"Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for 
your life, what you shall eat; neither for your body, 
what you shall put on. 23 The life is more than 
meat, and the body is more than raiment. 

* * 

24 "Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor 

reap; which neither have store house nor barn; and 

God feedeth them; how much more are you better 

than the fowls? 

* * * 

25 "And which of you with taking thought can 
add to his stature one cubit? 26 If you then are 
not able to do that which is least, why take you 
thought for the rest? 

27 "Consider the lilies, how they grow: they toil 
not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that 
Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of 
these. 28 If then God so clothe the grass, which 
is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the 
oven; how much more will he clothe you, O you of 
little faith? 

29 "And seek not ye what you shall eat, or what 
you shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. 
30 For all these things do the nations of the world 



1 The Parable of the Rich Fool. 

Chapter 12:17-30 



174 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

seek after; but your Father knoweth that you have 

need of these things. 31 But rather seek ye the 

kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added 

unto you. 

#* ** ** 

32 "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's 
good pleasure to give you the kingdom. 

33 "Sell that which you have, and give alms; 
provide yourselves bags that wax not old, a treasure 
in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief 
approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. 34 For 
where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 

Epilogue 

35 "Let your loins be girded about, and your 
lamps burning; 36 and ye yourselves like unto 
men that wait for their lord, when he will return 
from the wedding ; that when he cometh and knock- 
eth, they may open unto him immediately. 37 
Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he 
cometh, shall find watching; verily I say unto you, 
that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down 
to meat, and will come forth and serve them. 38 
And if he shall come in the second watch, or come 
in the third watch and find them so, blessed are those 
servants. 39 And know this, that if the goodman of 
the house had known what hour the thief would 
come, he would have watched, and not have left 
the house to be broken through. 40 Be ye there- 
fore ready also; for the Son of man cometh at an 
hour when you think not." 



b. The Reward of Faithfulness 

41 Then Peter said unto him, "Lord, speakest thou this parable 
unto us, or even to all?" 42 And the Lord said, "Who then is 
that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall set over his 
household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? 
43 Blessed is that servant, whom his Lord when he cometh shall 
find so doing. 44 Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make 
him ruler over all that he hath. 45 But if that servant say in 
his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat 
the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be 
drunken; 46 the lord of that servant will come in a day when 

Chapter 12:31-46 



12:17 The Gospel According to Luke 175 

he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, 
and shall cut him asunder, and will appoint his portion with the 
unbelievers. 47 And that servant who knew his lord's will, 
and prepared not himself ', neither did according to his will, shall 
be beaten with many stripes: 48 But he that knew not, and 
did things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. 
For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much re- 
quired; and to whom men have commited much, of him they 
will ask the more." 



c. The Impending Crisis 

49 "I came to cast fire upon the earth; and what will I, if it 
be already kindled? 50 But I have a baptism to be baptized 
with; and how am I straightened 1 till it be accomplished? 
51 Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, 
Nay; but rather division; 52 for from henceforth there shall be 
five in one house divided, three against two, and two against 
three. 53 The father shall be divided against the son, and the 
son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the 
daughter against the mother ; the mother in law against her daughter 
in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law." 



d. The Signs of the Times 

54 And he said also to the people, "When you see a cloud 
rise out of the west, straightway you say, 'There cometh a shower;' 
and so it is. 55 And when you see the south wind blow, you say, 
'There will be heat;' and it cometh to pass. 56 You hypocrites, 
you can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is ic 
that you do not discern this time? 57 Yea, and why even of 
yourselves judge ye not what is right? 58 When thou goesc 
with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, 
give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he 
hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, 
and the officer cast thee into prison. 59 I tell thee, Thou shalt 
not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite." 



§4. THE NATURE OF THE JUDGMENT 

I. THE CALL TO REPENTANCE 

The Universality of Sin 

13:1 There were present at that season some that told him of 
the Galilasans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacri- 

1 Or, pained. 

Chapter 12:17-13:1 



176 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

fices. 2 And Jesus answering said unto them, ' 'Suppose ye that 
these Galilseans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because 
they have suffered such things? 3 I tell you, Nay; but, except 
you repent, you shall all likewise perish. 4 Or those eighteen, 
upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that 
they were sinners above all men that dwell in Jerusalem ? 5 I tell 
you, Nay; but, except you repent, you shall all likewise perish." 



II. THE PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE 
The Patience of the Lord 

6 He spoke also this parable: "A certain man had a fig tree 
planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and 
found none. 7 Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, 
'Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, 
and find none : cut it down ; why cumbereth it the ground ? 8 And 
he answering said unto him, 'Lord, let it alone this year also, 
till I shall dig about it, and dung it; 9 and if it bear fruit well: 
but if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down." 



IH. THE HEALING OF AN INFIRM WOMAN 
The Compassion of the Lord 

10 And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. 
1 1 And, behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity 
eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise 
lift up herself. 12 And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, 
and said unto her, "Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity." 
13 And he laid his hands upon her: and immediately she was 
made straight, and glorified God. 14 And the ruler of the 
synagogue answered with indignation, because Jesus had healed 
on the sabbath day, and said unto the people, "There are six 
days in which men ought to work ; in them therefore come and be 
healed, and not on the sabbath day." 15 The Lord then answered 
him, and said Thou hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the 
sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to 
watering? 16 And ought not this woman, being a daughter of 
Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, to 
be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?" 17 And when he 
had said these things, all his adversaries were ashamed: and all 
the people rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by 
him. 

Chapter 13:2-17 



13: 18 The Gospel According to Luke 177 

IV. THE EXTENSION OF THE KINGDOM 

The Parables of the Mustard Seed and Leaven 

18 Then said he, "Unto what is the kingdom of God like? 
and whereunto shall I resemble it ? 19 It is like a grain of mustard 
seed, which a man took, and cast into his graden; and it grew, 
and became a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the 
branches of it." 20 And again he said, "Whereunto shall I liken 
the kingdom of God? 21 It is like leaven, which a woman took 
and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened." 



(Hht ffnurth Summary 

22 And he went through the cities and villages, teaching, and 
journeying toward Jerusalem. 



Part IFito* 
The Journey to Jerusalem Concluded 



§1. THE GLORY OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD 
I. THE QUESTION CONCERNING THE SAVED 
The First and the Last 

Then said one unto him, "Lord, are there few that be saved?" 
And he said unto them, 24 "Strive to enter in at the strait 
gate : for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall 
not be able. 25 When once the master of the house is risen up, 
and hath shut to the door, and you begin to stand without, and 
to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he 
shall answer and say unto you, I know not whence you are: 26 
then shall you begin to say, We have eaten and drunken in thy 
presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. 27 But he shall 
say, I tell you, I know not whence you are; depart from me all 
ye workers of iniquity. 28 There shall be weeping and gnashing 
of teeth when you shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and 
all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves 
thrust out. 29 And they shall come from the east, and from the 
west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down 
in the kingdom of God. 30 And behold, there are last that 
shall be first; and there are first that shall be last." 



II. THE THREAT OF HEROD 1 THE TETRARCH 
The Fall of Jerusalem Foretold 

31 The same day there came certain of the Pharisees, saying 
unto him, "Get thee out, and depart hence: for Herod will kill 
thee." 32 And he said unto them, "Go ye, and tell that fox, 
Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures to day, and to morrow, 
and the third day I shall be perfected. 33 Nevertheless, I must 
walk to day, and to morrow, and the day following; for it cannot 
be that a prophet perish out of Jerusalem. 34 O Jerusalem, 
Jerusalem, that killest the prophets, and stonest them that are 
sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children 



iPs. 118:26. 

179 Chapter 13:23-34 



180 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

together as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and you 
would not! 35 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate: 
and verily I say unto you, You shall not see me, until the time 
come when you shall say, 'Blessed is he that cometh in the name 
of the Lord.' " 



III. THE VISIT WITH A CHIEF PHARISEE 
a. The Healing of a Man with Dropsy 

14 : 1 And it came to pass, as he went into the house of one 
of the chief Pharisees to eat bread on the sabbath day, that they 
watched him. 2 And, behold, there was a certain man before 
him who had the dropsy. 3 And Jesus answering spoke unto 
the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, "Is it lawful to heal on the 
sabbath day?" 4 And they held their peace. And he took 
him, and healed him, and let him go; 5 and answered them, 
saying, "Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, 
and will not straightway pull him out on the sabbath day?" 6 
And they could not answer him again to these things. 



b. The True Rank among Men 

7 And he put forth a parable to those that were bidden, when 
he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them, 
8 "When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down 
in the highest room, lest a more honourable man than thou be 
bidden of him; 9 and he that bade thee and him come and say 
unto thee, Give this man place, and thou begin with shame to 
take the lowest room. 10 But when thou art bidden, go and 
sit down in the lowest room ; that when he that bade thee cometh, 
he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have 
worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. 11 
For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that 
humbleth himself shall be exalted." 



c. The True Hospitality 

12 Then said he also to him that bade him, "When thou makest 
a dinner or supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither 
thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbors; lest they also bid thee again, 
and a recompense be made thee. 13 But when thou makest a 
feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind; 14 and thou 
shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt 
be recompensed at the resurrection of the just." 

Chapter 13:35-14:14 



14: 15 The Gospel According to Luke 181 

d. The Gracious Invitation 1 

15 And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard 
these things, he said unto him, "Blessed is he that shall eat bread 
in the kingdom of God." 16 Then said he unto him, "A certain 
man made a great supper, and made many: 17 and sent his ser- 
vant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, 'Come; for 
all things are now ready.' 18 And they all with one consent 
began to make excuse: The first said unto him, T have bought 
a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee 
have me excused.' 19 And another said, 'I have bought five 
yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me 
excused.' 20 And another said, 'I have married a wife, and 
therefore I cannot come.' 21 So that servant came and showed 
his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry 
said to his servant, 'Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of 
the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the 
halt, and the blind.' 22 And the servant said, 'Lord, it is done 
as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room.' 23 And the 
lord said unto the servant, 'Go out into the highways and hedges, 
and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.' 24 
For I say unto you, that none of those men that were bidden 
shall taste of my supper.' " 



IV. THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP 
The Seven-Fold Address 

25 And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, 

and said unto them : 

* 

26 "If any man come to me, and hate not his 
father, and mother, and wife, and children, and 
brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he 
cannot be my disciple. 2 

* * 

27 "And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and 
come after me, cannot be my disciple. 

* * * 

28 "For who of you, intending to build a tower, 
sitteth not down first and counteth the cost, whether 
he have sufficient to finish it? 29 lest haply, after 
he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to 
finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, 30 



1 The parable of the Great Supper. 2 The seven-fold renunciation. 

Chapter 14:15-30 



182 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

saying, 'This man began to build, and was not able 
to finish.' 

31 "Or what king, going to make war against 
another king, sitteth not down first, and con- 
sulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet 
him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? 
32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, 
he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions 
of peace. 

33 "So likewise, whosoever he be of you that 
f orsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my 
disciple. 

34 "Salt is good; but if the salt have lost its 
savor, wherewith shall it be seasoned? 35 It is 
neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; 
but men cast it out. 

"He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." 



§2. THE GREAT REJOICING IN HEAVEN 

THE LOST AND FOUND 

a. The Parable of the Lost Sheep 

15 : 1 Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners 
to hear him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, 
"This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them." 3 And 
he spoke this parable unto them, saying, 4 "What man of 
you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not 
leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that 
which is lost, until he find it? 5 And when he hath found it, 
he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he cometh 
home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto 
them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.' 
7 I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one 
sinner that repent eth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, 
who need no repentance." 



b. The Parable of the Lost Coin 

8 "Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose 
one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek 
diligently till she find it? 9 And when she hath found it, she 

Chapter 14:31-15:9 



15:10 The Gospel According to Luke 183 

calleth her friends and her neighbors together, saying, 'Rejoice 
with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.' 10 Like- 
wise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels 
of God over one sinner that repenteth." 



c. The Parable of the Prodigal Son 

11 And he said, "A certain man had two sons. 12 and the 
younger of them said to his father, 'Father, give me the portion 
of goods that falleth to me? And he divided unto them his 
living. 13 And not many days after, the younger son gathered 
all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there 
wasted his substance with riotous living. 14 And when he had 
spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land, and he began 
to be in want. 15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen 
of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 16 
And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the 
swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. 17 And when he 
came to himself, he said, 'How many hired servants of my father's 
have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! 18 
I will arise and go to my father, and I will say unto him, Father, 
I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, 19 and am no 
more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired 
servants. 20 And he arose and came to his father. But when he 
was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, 
and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. 21 And the son 
said unto him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in 
thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.' 22 
But the father said to his servants, 'Bring forth the best robe, 
and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his 
feet: 23 and bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us 
eat, and be merry: 24 for this my son was dead, and is alive 
again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to be merry. 
25 Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew 
nigh to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 And he 
called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. 
27 And he said unto him, 'Thy brother is come; and thy father 
has killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and 
sound.' 28 And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore 
came his father out, and intreated him. 29 And he answering 
said to his father, 'Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither 
transgressed I at any time thy commandments: and yet thou 
never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends : 
30 but as soon as this thy son was come, who hath devoured thy 
living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.' 31 
And he said unto him, 'Son, thou art ever with me, and all that 

Chapter 15:10-31 



184 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

I have is thine. 32 It was mete that we should make merry, 
and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; 
and was lost, and is found.' " 



§3. THE GREAT REWARD OF THE KINGDOM 

I. THE PARABLE OF THE UNJUST STEWARD 

The Service of God and Mammon 

16: 1 And he said also unto his disciples, "There was a certain 
rich man, who had a steward; and the same was accused unto 
him that he had wasted his goods. 2 And he called him, and 
said unto him, 'How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account 
of thy stewardship; for thou may est be no longer steward.' 3 
Then the steward said within himself, 'What shall I do? for my 
lord taketh away from me the stewardship: I cannot dig; to 
beg I am ashamed. 4 I am resolved what to do, that when I 
am put out of my stewardship, they may receive me into their 
houses.' 5 So he called every one of his lord's debtors unto him, 
and said unto the first, 'How much owest thou unto my lord?' 
6 And he said, 'An hundred measures of oil.' And he said unto 
him, 'Take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty.' 7 
Then said he to another, 'And how much owest thou?' And he 
said, 'An hundred measures of wheat.' And he said unto him, 
'Take thy bill, and write fourscore.' 8 And the lord commended 
the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children 
of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of 
light. 9 And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the 
mammon of righteousness; that, when you fail, they may receive 
you into everlasting habitations. 10 He that is faithful in that 
which is least is faithful also in much : and he that is unjust in the 
least is unjust also in much. 11 If therefore you have not been 
faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your 
trust the true riches? 12 And if you have not been faithful in 
that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is 
your own? 13 No servant can serve two masters: for either he 
will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the 
one, and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon." 



II. THE REPLY TO THE PHARISEES 
a. The Seven-Fold Saying 

14 And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these 
things: and they derided him. 15 And he said unto them, 
"You are they that justify yourselves before men: but God 

Chapter 15:32-16:15 



16: 16 The Gospel According to Luke 185 

knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among 
men is abomination in the sight of God. 16 The law and the 
prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God 
is preached, and every man presseth into it. 17 And it is easier 
for heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail. 18 
Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, com- 
mitteth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away 
from her husband committeth adultery. 



b. The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus 

19 "There was a certain rich man, who was clothed in purple 
and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day. 20 And there 
was a certain beggar named Lazarus, who was laid at his gate 
full of sores, 21 and desiring to be fed with the crumbs that 
fell from the rich man's table : moreover the dogs came and licked 
his sores. 22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and 
was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man 
also died and was buried; 23 and in hell he lifted up his 
eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus 
in his bosom. 24 And he cried and said, 'Father Abraham, 
have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of 
his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in 
this flame.' 25 But Abraham said, 'Son, remember that thou 
in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus 
evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. 
26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf 
fixed: so that they that would pass from hence to you cannot; 
neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.' 27 
Then he said, T pray thee therefore, Father, that thou wouldst 
send him to my father's house; 28 for I have five brothers; 
that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this 
place of torment. 29 Abraham saith unto him, 'They have 
Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.' 30 And he said, 
'Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, 
they will repent.' 31 And he said unto him, 'If they hear not 
Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though 
one rose from the dead.' " 



in. THE WOE OF OFFENCES 

The Seven-Fold Saying 

17:1 Then said he unto the disciples, "It is impossible but 
that offences will come: but woe unto him through whom they 
come! 2 It were better for him that a millstone were hanged 
about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should 

Chapter 16:16-17:2 



186 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

offend one of these little ones. 3 Take heed to yourselves: If 
thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, 
forgive him. 4 And if he trespass against thee seven times in 
a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I 
repent, thou shalt forgive him." 



IV. THE GREATNESS OF FAITH 
The Law of Duty 

5 And the apostles said unto the Lord, "Increase our faith." 

6 And the Lord said, "If you had faith as a grain of mustard 
seed, you might say to this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by 
the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it shall obey you. 

7 But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, 
will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go 
and sit down to meat? 8 And will not rather say unto him, 
Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve 
me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat 
and drink? 9 Doth he thank that servant because he did the 
things that were commanded him? I think not. 10 So like- 
wise ye, when you shall have done all those things that are com- 
manded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done 
that which it was our duty to do." 



§4. THE JUDGMENT TO COME 

I. THE CLEANSING OF THE TEN LEPERS 

The Ingratitude of the Nine 

11 And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he 
passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. 12 And as 
he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that 
were lepers, who stood afar off: 13 and they lifted up their 
voices, and said, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." 14 And 
when he saw them, he said unto them, "Go show yourselves unto 
the priests." And it came to pass, that, as they went, they 
were cleansed. 15 And one of them, when he saw that he was 
healed, turned back, and with aloud voice glorified God, 16 and 
fell down on his face, giving him thanks; and he was a Samari- 
tan. 17 And Jesus answering said, "Were there not ten cleansed? 
but where are the nine? 18 There are not found any that re- 
turned to give glory to God, save this stranger." 19 And he 
said unto him, "Arise, go thy way; thy faith hath made thee 
whole." 

Chapter 17:3-19 



17:20 The Gospel According to Luke 187 

H. THE KINGDOM OF GOD IN THE MIDST 

a. The Reply to the Pharisees 

20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the 
kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, "The 
kingdom of God cometh not with observation; 1 21 neither 
shall they say, Lo, here! or, Lo, there! for, behold, the kingdom 
of God is within you." 2 



b. The Seven-Fold Address to the Disciples 

22 And he said unto his disciples: 



"The days will come, when you shall desire to 

see one of the days of the Son of man, and you shall 

not see it. 23 And they shall say unto you, See, 

here! or, See, there! go not after them, nor follow 

them. 24 For as the lightning, that lighteneth out 

of one part under heaven, shmeth unto the other 

part under heaven ; so shall also the Son of man be 

in his day. 

* * 

25 "But first must he suffer many things, and 
be rejected of this generation. 



26 "And as it was in the days of Noah, so shall 
it be in the days of the Son of man. 27 They did 
eat, they drank, they married wives, they were 
given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered 
into the ark, and the flood came and destroyed 
them all. 



28 "Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; 
they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, 
they planted, they builded; 29 but the same day 
that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brim- 
stone from heaven, and destroyed them all. 



30 "Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son 
of man is revealed. 31 In that day, he that shall 
be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, 



1 Or, with outward show. 2 Or, among you, or. in your midst. 

Chapter 17:20-31 



188 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

let him not come down to take it away : and he that 
is in the field, let him likewise not return back. 

32 "Remember Lot's wife. 33 Whosoever shall 
seek to save his life shall lose it ; and whosoever shall 
lose his life shall preserve it. 

34 "I tell you, in that night there shall be two 
men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other 
left. 35 Two women shall be grinding together; 
the one shall be taken, and the other left. 36 Two 
men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and 
the other left." 

37 And they answered and said unto him, "Where, Lord?" 
And he said unto them, "Wheresoever the body is, thither will 
the eagles be gathered together." 



c. The Finding of Faith on the Earth 1 

18: 1 And he spoke a parable unto them to this end, that men 
ought always to pray, and not to faint; 2 saying, "There was 
in a city a judge, who feared not God, neither regarded man; 
3 and there was a widow in that city, and she came unto him, 
saying, 'Avenge me of my adversary.' 4 And he would not 
for awhile: but afterward he said within himself , 'Though I fear 
not God, nor regard man; 5 yet, because this widow troubleth 
me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary 
me.' " 6 And the Lord said, "Hear what the unjust judge 
saith. 7 And shall not God avenge his own elect who cry day 
and night unto him, though he bear long with them? 8 I tell 
you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the 
Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?" 



in. THE TRUE MEMBERS OF THE KINGDOM 
a. The Pharisee and the Publican 

9 And he spoke this parable unto certain that trusted in them- 
selves that they were righteous, and despised others: 10 "Two 
men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and 
the other a publican. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus 
with himself: 'God, I thank thee that I am not as other men are, 
extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. 12 I 

1 The parable of the Unjust Judge. 

Chapter 17:32-18:12 



18:13 The Gospel According to Luke 189 

fast twice in the week; I give tithes of all that I possess.' 13 
And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much 
as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, 'God, 
be merciful to me a sinner.' 14 I tell you, this man went down 
to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that 
exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself 
shall be exalted." 



b. The Children and the Kingdom 

15 And they brought unto him also infants, that he would 
touch them; but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them. 
16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, "Suffer little chil- 
dren to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the 
kingdom of God. 17 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not 
receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter 
therein." 



c. The Rich and the Kingdom 

18 And a certain ruler asked him, saying, "Good Master, 
what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" 19 And Jesus said unto 
him, "Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that 
is, God. 20 Thou knowest the commandments, 

'Do not commit adultery, 
Do not kill, 
Do not steal, 

Do not bear false witness, 
Honour thy father and thy mother.' " l 
* 

21 And he said, "All these have I kept from my youth up." 22 
Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, "Yet 
lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute 
unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven : and come, 
follow me." 23 And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: 
for he was very rich. 

d. The Reward of Renunciation 

24 And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, 
"How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom 
of God! 25 For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's 
eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God." 26 

i Ex. 20:12. 

Chapter 18:13-26 



190 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

And they that heard it said, "Who then can be saved?" 27 And 
he said, "The things that are impossible with men, are possible 
with God." 28 Then Peter said, "Lo, we have left all, and 
followed thee." 29 And he said unto them, "Verily I say unto 
you, there is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, 
or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, 30 who 
shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the 
world to come life everlasting." 



IV. THE APPROACH TO JERUSALEM 
a. The Seven-Fold Forecast of the Crucifixion 

31 Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them: 

* * * 

"Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things 

that are written by the prophets concerning the 

Son of man shall be accomplished. 

* 

32 For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, 

* 

And shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, 
And spitted upon, 

33 And they shall scourge him, 

* 

And put him to death; 
* 

And the third day he shall rise again." 

34 And they understood none of these things : and this saying 
was hid from them, neither knew they the things that were 
spoken. 



b. The Blind Man near Jericho 

35 And it came to pass, that as he came nigh unto Jericho, a 
certain blind man sat by the wayside begging: 36 and hearing 
the multitude pass by, asked what it meant. 37 And they told 
him that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by. 38 And he cried, saying, 
"Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me." 39 And they 
that went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace : but 
he cried so much the more, "Thou son of David, have mercy on 
me." 40 And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought 
unto him: and when he was come near, he asked him, 41 saying, 

Chapter 18:27-41 



18:42 The Gospel According to Luke 191 

"What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee?" And he said, "Lord, 
that I may receive my sight." 42 And Jesus said unto him, 
"Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee." 43 And im- 
mediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying 
God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God. 



c. The Meeting with Zacchaeus 

19 : 1 And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. 2 And, 
behold, there was sl man named Zacchseus, who was the chief 
among the publicans, and he was rich. 3 And he sought to 
see Jesus who he was; and he could not for the press, because 
he was little of stature. 4 And he ran before, and climbed up 
into a sycamore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way. 5 
And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and saw him, 
and said unto him, "Zacchseus, make haste, and come down; 
for today I must abide at thy house." 6 And he made haste, 
and came down, and received him joyfully. 7 And when they 
saw it, they all murmured, saying, that he was gone to be the 
guest of a man that was a sinner. 8 And Zacchseus stood, and 
said unto the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give 
to the poor; and if I have taken anything from any man by false 
accusation, I restore him fourfold." 9 And Jesus said unto him, 
"This day is salvation come to this house, forasmuch as he also 
is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of man is come to seek 
and to save that which was lost." 



d. The Parable of the Pounds 

11 And as they heard these things, he added and spoke a 
parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they 
thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. 
12 He said therefore, "A certain nobleman went into a far country 
to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. 13 And he 
called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said 
unto them, 'Occupy till I come.' 14 But his citizens hated him, 
and sent a message after him, saying, 'We will not have this man 
to reign over us.' 15 And it came to pass that when he had 
returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded 
these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the 
money, that he might know how much every man had gained 
by trading. 16 Then came the first, saying, 'Lord, thy pound 
hath gained ten pounds.' 17 And he said unto him, 'Well, 
thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very 
little, have thou authority over ten cities.' 18 And the second 

Chapter 18:42-19:18 



192 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

came, saying, 'Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.' 19 
And he said likewise to him, 'Be thou also over five cities.' 20 
And another came, saying, 'Lord, behold, here is thy pound, 
which I have kept laid up in a napkin: 21 for I feared thee, 
because thou art an austere man : thou takest up that thou layedst 
not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.' 22 And he 
saith unto him, 'Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou 
wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, 
taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow: 

23 wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, 
that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?' 

24 And he said unto them that stood by, 'Take from him the 
pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds.' 25 [And they 
said unto him, 'Lord, he hath ten pounds.'] 26 'For I say unto 
you, That unto every one that hath shall be given; and from him 
that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him. 
27 But those my enemies, who would not that I should reign 
over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.' ' 



Eht fifth Summary 



28 And when he had thus spoken, he went before, ascending 
up to Jerusalem. 



Part §ix 
The Ministry of Jesus in Jerusalem 



§1. THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY 

I. THE ROYAL RECEPTION BY THE CITY 

The Praise of the People 

And it came to pass, when he drew nigh to Bethphage and 
Bethany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of 
his disciples, 30 saying, "Go ye into the village over against 
you; in which as you enter you shall find a colt tied, whereon 
never man sat; loose him, and bring him hither. 31 And if any 
man ask you, Why do you loose himf thus shall you say unto 
him, Because the Lord hath need of him." 32 And they that 
were sent went their way, and found even as he had said unto 
them. 33 And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof 
said unto them, "Why loose ye the colt?" 34 And they said, 
"The Lord hath need of him." 35 And they brought him to 
Jesus: and they cast their garments upon the colt, and they set 
Jesus thereon. 36 And as he went, they spread their clothes in 
the way. 37 And when he was come nigh, even now at the 
descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the dis- 
ciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all 
the mighty works that they had seen, 38 saying : 



'Blessed be the King that cometh in the name 

of the Lord; 
Peace in heaven; and, 
Glory in the highest." 1 



39 And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said 
unto him, "Master, rebuke thy disciples." 40 And he answered 
and said unto them, "I tell you that, if these should hold their 
peace, the stones would immediately cry out." 



iPs. 118:26. 

193 Chapter 19:29-40 



194 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

H. THE LAMENTATION OF JESUS 
The Forecast of the Destruction of Jerusalem 

41 And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept 
over it, 42 saying, "If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in 
this thy day, the things that belong unto thy peace! but now are 
they hid from thine eyes. 43 For the days shall come upon 
thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and com- 
pass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, 44 and shall 
lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; 
and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because 
thou knewest not the time of thy visitation." 



m. THE CLEANSING OF THE TEMPLE 
The House of Prayer 

45 And he went into the temple, and began to cast out them 
that sold therein, and them that bought; 46 saying unto them, 
"It is written, 'My house is the house of prayer;' 1 but you have 
made it a den of thieves." 



IV. THE PLOT TO DESTROY JESUS 
The Fear of the Rulers 

47 And he taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests 
and the scribes and the chief of the people sought to destroy 
him, 48 and they could not find what they might do: 49 for 
all the people were very attentive to hear him. 



§2. THE CONTROVERSY WITH THE RULERS 

I. THE CHALLENGE OF AUTHORITY 

The Refusal of Jesus 

20 : 1 And it came to pass, that on one of those days, as he 
taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the 
chief priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders, 

2 and spoke unto him, saying, "Tell us, by what authority doest 
thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority?" 

3 And he answered and said unto them, "I will also ask you one 
thing; and answer me: 4 The baptism of John, was it from 
heaven, or of men?" 5 And they reasoned with themselves, 

IPs. 93:5. 

Chapter 19:41-20:5 



20:6 The Gospel According to Luke 195 

saying, "If we shall say, 'From heaven,' he will say, Why then 
believed ye him not? 6 but if we say, 'Of men,' all the people will 
stone us: for they are persuaded that John was a prophet." 

7 And they answered, that they could not tell whence it was. 

8 And Jesus said unto them, "Neither tell I you by what authority 
I do these things." 



II. THE REJECTION OF JESUS 
The Parable of the Wicked Husbandmen 

9 Then began he to speak to the people this parable: "A 
certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, 
and went into a far country for a long time. 10 And at the 
season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should 
give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat 
him, and sent him away empty. 11 And again he sent another 
servant: and they beat him also, and treated him shamefully, 
and sent him away empty. 12 And again he sent a third: and 
they wounded him also, and cast him out. 13 Then said the lord 
of the vineyard, 'What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: 
it may be that they will reverence him when they see him.' 14 
But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among them- 
selves, saying, 'This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the 
inheritance may be ours.' 15 So they cast him out of the vine- 
yard, and killed him. What therefore shall the lord of the vine- 
yard do unto them? 16 He shall come and destroy these hus- 
bandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others." And when 
they heard it, they said, "God forbid." 17 And he beheld them, 
and said, "What is this then that is written: 

* * * 

'The stone which the builders rejected, 
The same is become the head of the corner?' 1 
* 

18 Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but 
on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder." 



III. THE PLOT TO ENSNARE JESUS 
a. The Question of the Tribute 

19 And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought 
to lay hands on him; and they feared the people: for they per- 
ceived that he had spoken this parable against them. 20 And 
they watched him, and sent forth spies, who should feign them- 
es. 118:22. 

Chapter 20:6-20 



196 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V I 

selves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so 
they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the 
governor. 21 And they asked him, saying, "Master, we know 
that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the 
person of any, but teachest the way of God truly : 22 Is it lawful 
for us to give tribute unto Caesar, or no?" 23 But he perceived 
their craftiness, and said unto them, "Why tempt ye me? 24 
Show me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it?" 
They answered and said, "Caesar 's." 1 25 And he said unto 
them, "Render therefore unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, 
and unto God the things that are God's." 26 And they could 
not take hold of his words before the people : and they marvelled 
at his answer, and held their peace. 



b. The Question of the Resurrection 

27 Then came to him certain of the Sadducees, who deny that 
there is any resurrection: and they asked him, 28 saying, 
"Master, Moses wrote unto us, 'If any man's brother die, having 
a wife, and he die without children, that his brother should take 
his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.' 29 There were 
therefore seven brothers : and the first took a wife and died with- 
out children. 30 And the second took her to be his wife, and he 
died childless. 31 And the third took her; and in like manner 
the seven also; and they left no children, and died. 32 Last of 
all the woman died also. 33 Therefore in the resurrection whose 
wife of them is she? for seven had her as wife." 34 And Jesus 
answering said unto them, "The children of this world marry 
and are given in marriage : 35 but they that shall be accounted 
worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, 
neither marry, nor are given in marriage: 36 neither can they 
die any more; for they are equal unto the angels; and are the chil- 
dren of God, being the children of the resurrection. 37 Now 
that the dead are raised, even Moses showed at the bush, when 
he calleth the Lord the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, 
and the God of Jacob. 38 For he is not the God of the dead, 
but of the living: for all live unto him." 39 Then certain of the 
scribes answering said, "Master, thou hast well said." 40 And 
after that they dared not ask him any question at all. 



c. The Counter Question of Jesus 

41 And he said unto them, "How say they that Christ is David's 
son? 42 And David himself saith in the book of Psalms: 



1 Tiberias Caesar reigned A. D. 12, 14-37. 

Chapter 20:21^2 



20:43 The Gospel According to Luke 197 

* * * 

'The Lord said unto my Lord, 
Sit thou on my right hand, 
43 Till I make thy enemies thy footstool.' ' 

* 
44 David therefore calleth him Lord: how is he then his son?" 



IV. THE CONDEMNATION OF THE SCRIBES 
The Seven-Fold Saying of Jesus 

45 Then in the audience of all the people he said unto his 

disciples : 

* * * 

46 "Beware of the scribes, 

* 

Who desire to walk in long robes, 

* 
And love greetings in the markets, 

* 

And the highest seats in the synagogues, 
* 

And the chief rooms at feasts; 
* 
47 Who devour widow's houses, 
* 

And for a show make long prayers: 
* 

The same shall receive greater damnation." 



§3. THE GOSPEL OF GIVING 

THE GIFT OF A WIDOW INTO THE TREASURY 
The Praise of Jesus 

21:1 And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their 
gifts into the treasury. 2 And he saw also a certain poor widow 
casting in thither two mites. 3 And he said, "Of a truth I say 
unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: 
4 for all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings 
of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that 
she had." 



J Psa. 110:1. 

Chapter 20:43-21:4 



198 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

§4. THE GREAT DISCOURSE ON LAST THINGS 

THE FALL OF JERUSALEM AND SECOND COMING OF JESUS 

The Seven-Fold Address to the Disciples 

5 And as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with 
goodly stones and gifts, he said: 6 "As for these things that 
you behold, the days will come in which there shall not be left 
one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down." 7 
And they asked him, saying: " Master, but when shall these 
things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall 
come to pass?" 8 And he said, "Take heed that you be not 
deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; 
and, The time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 9 
But when you shall hear of wars and commotions, be not ter- 
rified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is 
not by and by." 10 Then said he unto them: 

* 

"Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom 

against kingdom: 11 and great earthquakes shall 

be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; 

and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from 

heaven. 

* * 

12 "But before all these, they shall lay their 
hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you 
up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being 
brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake. 
13 And it shall turn to. you for a testimony. 14 
Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate 
beforehand what you shall answer: 15 for I will 
give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your 
adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. 
* * * 

16 "And you shall be betrayed both by parents, - 
and brothers, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some 
of you shall they cause to be put to death. 17 And 
you shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. 

18 But there shall not a hair of your head perish. 

19 In your patience possess ye your souls. 

20 "But when you shall see Jerusalem compassed 
with armies, then know that the desolation thereof 
is nigh. 21 Then let them that are in Judaea flee 
to the mountains; and let them that are in the midst 
of it depart out; and let not them that are in the 

Chapter 21:5-21 



21:22 The Gospel According to Luke 199 

countries enter thereinto. 22 For these are the 
days of vengeance, that all things that are written 
may be fulfilled. ***** 

23 "But woe unto them that are with child, and 
to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall 
be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this 
people. 24 And they shall fall by the edge of the 
sword, and shall be led away captive into all na- 
tions: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the 
Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled. 
*** *** 

25 "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in 
the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth 
distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the 
waves roaring; 26 men's hearts failing them for 
fear, and for looking after those things that are 
coming on the earth : for the powers of heaven shall 
be shaken. *** * *** 

27 "And then shall they see the Son of man 
coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 
And when these things begin to come to pass, then 
look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemp- 
tion draweth nigh." 

* 

29 And he spoke unto them a parable: "Behold the fig tree, 
and all the trees; 30 when they now shoot forth, you see and 
know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. 31 
So likewise ye, when you see these things come to pass, know 
ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. 32 Verily I say 
unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be ful- 
filled. 33 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words 
shall not pass away. 34 And take heed to yourselves, lest at 
any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunken- 
ness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you un- 
awares. 35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell 
on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch ye therefore, and 
pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all 
these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the 
Son of man." 

She Sixth Summary 

37 And in the day time he was teaching in the temple; and 
at night he went out, and abode in the mount that is called the 
mount of Olives. 38 And all the people came early in the morn- 
ing to him in the temple, for to hear him. 



Part &mn 

The Crucifixion and Resurrection 
of Jesus 



§1. THE OBSERVANCE OF THE PASSOVER 

I. THE APPROACHING FEAST 
The Conspiracy of Judas with the Rulers 

Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called 
the Passover. 2 And the chief priests and the scribes sought 
how they might kill him; for they feared the people. 3 Then 
entered Satan into Judas, surnamed Iscariot, being of the number 
of the twelve. 4 And he went his way, and communed with 
the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto 
them. 5 And they were glad, and covenanted to give him 
money. 6 And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray 
him unto them in the absence of the multitudes. 



II. THE PREPARATION FOR THE FEAST 
The Upper Room in the City 

7 Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover 
must be killed. 8 And he sent Peter and John, saying, "Go, 
and prepare for us the passover, that we may eat." 9 And 
they said unto him, "Where wilt thou that we prepare?" 10 And 
he said unto them, "Behold, when you have entered into the 
city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; 
follow him into the house where he entereth in. 11 And you 
shall say unto the good man of the house, The Master saith unto 
thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover 
with my disciples? 12 And he shall show you a large upper 
room furnished: there make ready." 13 And they went, and 
found as he had said unto them ; and they made ready the passover. 



HI. THE OBSERVANCE OF THE FEAST 
The Institution of the Holy Communion 

14 And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve 
apostles with him. 15 And he said unto them, "With desire, I 

201 Chapter 22:1-15 



202 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

have desired 1 to eat this passover with you before I suffer: 16 
for I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be 
fulfilled in the kingdom of God." 17 And he took the cup, 
and gave thanks, and said, "Take this, and divide it among 
yourselves: 18 for I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of 
the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come." 19 And he took 
bread, and gave thanks, and broke it and gave unto them, saying, 
"This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance 
of me." 20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, "This 
cup is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you. 
21 But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me 
on the table. 22 And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was 
determined: but woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed!" 
23 And they began to inquire among themselves, which of them 
it was that should do this thing. 



IV. THE SITUATION AFTER THE FEAST 
a. The Question of Rank 

24 And there was also a strife among them, which of them 
should be accounted the greatest. 25 And he said unto them, 
"The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and 
they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. 

26 But you shall not be so : but he that is greatest among you, let 
him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. 

27 For which is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth ? 
Is not he that sitteth at meat? But I am among you as he that 
serveth. 28 You are they that have continued with me in my 
temptations. 29 And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my 
Father hath appointed unto me; 30 that you may eat and 
drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the 
twelve tribes of Israel." 



b. The Forecast of Peter's Denial 

31 And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath 
desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: 32 but I 
have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art 
converted, strengthen thy brethren." 33 And he said unto 
him, "Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and 
to death." 34 And he said, "I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall 
not crow this day, before thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest 
me." 



1 Or, I have heartily desired. 

Chapter 22:16-34 



22:35 The Gospel According to Luke 203 

c. The Impending Crisis 

35 And he said unto them, "When I sent you without purse, 
and scrip, and shoes, lacked you any thing?" And they said, 
"Nothing." 36 Then said he unto them, "But now, he that 
hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that 
hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one. 37 For 
I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished 
in me, 'And he was reckoned among the transgressors :' i for the 
things concerning me have an end." 38 And they said, "Lord, 
behold, here are two swords." And he said unto them, "It is 
enough." 



§2. THE BETRAYAL AND ARREST OF JESUS 

I. THE AGONY IN THE GARDEN 

The Ministry of an Angel 

39 And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount 
of Olives; and his disciples also followed him. 40 And when 
he was at the place, he said unto them, "Pray that you enter 
not into temptation." 41 And he was withdrawn from them 
about a stone's throw, and kneeled down, and prayed, 42 saying, 
"Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless 
not my will, but thine, be done." 43 And there appeared an 
angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. 44 And being 
in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it 
were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. 45 And 
when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he 
found them sleeping for sorrow, 46 and said unto them, "Why 
sleep ye? Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation." 



H. THE BETRAYAL AND ARREST OF JESUS 
The Baseness of Judas Iscariot 

47 And while he yet spoke, behold a multitude, and he that 
was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew 
near unto Jesus to kiss him. 48 But Jesus said unto him, "Judas, 
betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?" 49 When they 
that were about him saw what would follow, they said unto him, 
"Lord, shall we smite with the sword?" 50 And one of them 
smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear. 
51 And Jesus answered and said, "Suffer ye thus far." And he 
touched his ear, and healed him. 52 Then Jesus said unto the 



ilsa. 53:12. 

Chapter 22:35-52 



204 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, who 
were come to him, "Are you come out, as against a thief, with 
swords and staves? 53 When I was daily with you in the temple, 
you stretched forth no hand against me; but this is your hour, 
and the power of darkness." 



III. THE DENIAL OF SIMON PETER 
The Bitter Sorrow of Peter 

54 Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into 
the high priest's house. And Peter followed afar off. 55 And 
when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were 
set down together, Peter sat down among them. 56 But a cer- 
tain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly looked 
upon him, and said, "This man was also with him." 57 And 
he denied him, saying, "Woman, I know him not." 58 And 
after a little while another saw him, and said, "Thou art also 
one of them." And Peter said, "Man, I am not." 59 And 
about the space of one hour after, another vehemently affirmed, 
saying, "Of a truth, this fellow also was with him: for he is a 
Galilasan." 60 And Peter said, "Man, I know not what thou 
sayest." And immediately, while he yet spoke, the cock crew. 
61 And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter 
remembered the word of the Lord, how he said unto him, "Before 
the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice." 62 And Peter went 
out, and wept bitterly. 



IV. THE MOCKING OF JESUS 
The Blasphemy of the Soldiers 

63 And the men that held Jesus mocked him, and smote him. 
64 And when they had blindfolded him, they struck him on the 
face, and asked him, saying, "Prophesy, who is it that smote 
thee?" 65 And many other things blasphemously spoke they 
against him. 



§3. THE TRIAL AND CRUCIFIXION OF JESUS 

I. THE CONDEMNATION OF JESUS 

a. The Action of the Sanhedrin 

66 And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and 
the chief priests and the scribes came together, and led him 
into their council , saying, 67 ' 'Art thou the Christ ? tell us. " And 
he said unto them, "If I tell you, you will not believe: 68 and 

Chapter 22:53-68 



22:69 The Gospel According to Luke 205 

if I ask you, you will not answer me, nor let me go. 69 Here- 
after shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of 
God." 70 Then said they all, "Art thou then the Son of God?" 
And he said unto them, "You say that I am." 71 And they 
said, "What need have we of any further witness? for we our- 
selves have heard of his own mouth." 



b. The Hearing Before Pilate 

23 : 1 And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him 
unto Pilate. 2 And they began to accuse him, saying, "We 
found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give 
tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ a king." 3 
And Pilate asked him, saying, "Art thou the king of the Jews?" 
And he answered him and said, "Thou sayest it." 4 Then 
said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, "I find no fault 
in this man." 5 And they were the more fierce, saying, "He 
stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning 
from Galilee to this place." 6 When Pilate heard of Galilee, 
he asked whether the man were a Galilasan. 7 And as soon as 
he knew that he belonged to Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to 
Herod, who himself was also at Jersualem at that time. 



c. The Hearing before Herod Antipas 

8 And when Herod saw Jesus he was exceeding glad: for he 
was desirous to see him for a long season, because he had heard 
many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle 
done by him. 9 And he questioned with him in many words; 
but he answered him nothing. 10 And the chief priests and 
scribes stood and vehemently accused him. 11 And Herod with 
his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed 
him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate. 12 And 
the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together; 
for before they were at enmity between themselves. 



d. The Sentence of Pilate 

13 And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests 
and the rulers of the people, 14 said unto them, "You have 
brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: 
and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no 
fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him: 
15 no, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing 
worthy of death is done unto him. 16 I will therefore chastise 

Chapter 22:69-23:16 



206 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V II 

him, and release him." 17 [For of necessity he must release one 
at the feast.] 18 And they cried out all at once, saying, "Away 
with this man, and release unto us Barabbas;" 19 [who for a 
certain sedition made in the city, and for murder, was cast into 
prison.] 20 Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spoke 
again to them. 21 But they cried out, saying, "Crucify him! 
crucify him!" 22 And he said unto them the third time, "Why, 
what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of death in him: 
I will therefore chastise him, and let him go." 23 And they were 
instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crucified. 
And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed. 24 
And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required. 25 
And he released unto them him who for sedition and murder was 
cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus 
to their will. 

II. THE WAY TO CALVARY 
a. The Bearing of the Cross by Simon of Cyrene 

26 And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, 
a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid 
the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus. 



b. The Sorrowing Women of Jerusalem 

27 And there followed him a great company of people, and 
of women, who also bewailed and lamented him. 28 But Jesus 
turning unto them said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for 
me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. 29 For, 
behold, the days are coming, in which they shall say, Blessed 
are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps 
that never gave suck. 30 Then shall they begin to say to the 
mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us. 31 For if 
they do these things in the green tree, what shall be done in the 
dry." 

c. The Two Malefactors 

32 And there were also two others, malefactors, led with him 
to be put to death. 

III. THE CRUCIFIXION OF JESUS 
a. The Circumstances of the Crucifixion 

33 And when they were come to the place, which is called 
Calvary, 1 there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one 
on the right hand, and the other on the left. 

1 Or, the place of a skull. 

Chapter 23:17-33 



23:34 The Gospel According to Luke 207 

* 

34 Then said Jesus, ' 'Father, forgive them; for they know 

not what they do." 

* 

And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. 

* 

35 And the people stood beholding. 

And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, "He saved 
others; let him save himself, if he be the Christ, the chosen of 
God." 

36 And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and 
offering him vinegar, 37 and saying, "If thou be the king of 
the Jews, save thyself." 

38 And a superscription also was written over him in letters 
of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew: 

* * * 

"THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS." 



b. The Conversation with the Malefactors 

39 And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on 
him, saying, "If thou be the Christ, save thyself and us." 40 
But the other answering rebuked him, saying, "Dost not thou 
fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? 41 And 
we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: 
but this man hath done nothing amiss." 42 And he said unto 
Jesus, "Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom." 
43 And Jesus said unto him, "Verily I say unto thee, 'Today 
shalt thou be with me in paradise.' " 



c. The Death of Jesus on the Cross 

44 And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness 
over all the earth until the ninth hour. 45 And the sun was 
darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. 46 
And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, "Father, 
into thy hands I commend my spirit:" and having said thus, 
he gave up the ghost. 47 Now when the centurion saw what 
was done, he glorified God, saying, "Certainly this was a righteous 
man." 48 And all the people that came together to that sight, 

Chapter 23:34-48 



208 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

beholding the things that were done, smote their breasts, and 
returned. 49 And all his acquaintance, and the women who 
followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things. 



IV. THE BURIAL OF JESUS NEAR THE CITY 
The Request of Joseph of Arimathaea 

50 And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; 
and he was sl good and just man 51 [The same had not con- 
sented to their counsel and deed]: he was of Arimathaea, a city 
of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God. 52 
This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. 53 
And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a 
sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before 
was laid. 54 And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath 
drew on. 55 And the women also, who came with him from 
Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his 
body was laid. 56 And they returned, and prepared spices 
and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the 
commandment. 



§4. THE RESURRECTION AND ASCENSION OF JESUS 

I. THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE RESURRECTION 

The Report of the Women 

24 : 1 Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the 
morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which 
they had prepared, and certain others with them. 2 And they 
found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. 3 And they 
entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 And 
it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold 
two men stood by them in shining garments: 5 and as they 
were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said 
unto them, "Why seek ye the living among the dead? 6 He 
is not here, but is risen: remember how he spoke unto you when 
he was yet in Galilee, 7 saying, 'The Son of man must be delivered 
into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day 
rise again.'" 8 And they remembered his words, 9 and returned 
from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, 
and to all the rest. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, 
and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with 
them, who told these things unto the apostles. 11 And their 
words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not. 
12 Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping 
down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, 
wondering in himself at that which had come to pass. 

Chapter 23:49-24:12 



24:13 The Gospel According to Luke 209 

H. THE APPEARANCE OF JESUS AT EMMAUS 

The Conversation with Two Disciples 

13 And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village 
called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore 
furlongs. 14 And they talked together of all these things that 
had happened. 15 And it came to pass, that, while they com- 
muned together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went 
with them. 16 But their eyes were holden that they should 
not know him. 17 And he said unto them, "What manner 
of communications are these that you have one to another, as 
you walk, and are sad?" 18 And one of them, whose name was 
Cleopas, answering said unto him, "Art thou only a stranger in 
Jerusalem, and hast not known the things that are come to pass 
there in these days ?" 19 And he said unto them, ' 'What things ?" 
And they said unto him, "Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who 
was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the 
people: 20 and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered 
him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. 21 But 
we trusted that it had been he that should have redeemed Israel : 
and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were 
done. 22 Yea, and certain women also of our company made us 
astonished, who were early at the sepulchre; 23 and when they 
found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a 
vision of angels, who said that he was alive. 24 And certain of 
them that were with us, went to the sepulchre, and found it even 
as the women had said: but him they saw not." 25 Then said 
he unto them, "O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the 
prophets have spoken: 26 ought not Christ to have suffered 
these things, and to enter into his glory?" 27 And beginning at 
Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the 
scriptures the things concerning himself. 28 And they drew nigh 
unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he 
would have gone further. 29 But they constrained him, saying, 
"Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent." 
And he went in to tarry with them. 30 And it came to pass, as he 
sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, 
and gave to them. 31 And their eyes were opened, and they 
knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. 32 And they 
said one to another, "Did not our heart burn within us, while he 
talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scrip- 
tures?" 33 And they rose up the same hour, and returned to 
Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them 
that were with them, 34 saying, "The Lord is risen indeed, 
and hath appeared to Simon." 35 And they told what things 
were done in the way, and how he was known of them in the 
breaking of bread. 

Chapter 24:13-35 



210 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

III. THE APPEARANCE OF JESUS TO THE APOSTLES 
a. The Proof of the Ressurrection 

36 And as they thus spoke, Jesus himself stood in the midst 
of them, and saith unto them, "Peace be unto you." 37 But 
they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had 
seen a spirit. 38 And he said unto them, "Why are you troubled? 
and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? 39 Behold my 
hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see, for a 
spirit hath not flesh and bones, as you see me have." 40 And 
when he had thus spoken, he showed them his hands and his feet. 
41 And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he 
said unto them, "Have you here any meat?" 42 And they gave 
him a piece of broiled fish, and of a honeycomb. 43 And he took 
it, and did eat before them. 



b. The Promise of the Holy Spirit 

44 And he said unto them, "These are the words which I spoke 
unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be ful- 
filled, that were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, 
and in the psalms, concerning me." 45 Then opened he their 
understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, 46 
and said unto them, "Thus it is written, and thus it behooved the 
Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: 47 
and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached 
in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And 
you are witnesses of these things. 49 And behold, I send the 
promise of my Father upon you : but tarry ye in the city of Jeru- 
salem, until you are endued with power from on high." 



IV. THE ASCENSION OF JESUS 
The Ascension of Jesus from Bethany 

50 And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted 
up his hands, and blessed them. 51 And it came to pass, while 
he blessed them, that he was parted from them, and carried up 
into heaven. 



She Clnstttg Summary 

52 And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with 

great joy: 53 and were continually in the temple, praising and 

blessing God. Amen. 

* * * 

* 



The Gospel 
According to John 



Prolop? 1 

The Word That Was God 
in the Beginning 



THE INCARNATION OF THE WORD 

THE REVELATION OF GOD BY THE ONLY BEGOTTEN SON 
NOW GLORIFIED 

The Seven-Fold Prologue 

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, 

and the Word was God. 

* 

2 The same was in the beginning with 2 God. 

* 

3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any- 
thing made that was made. 

* 

4 In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And 

the light shineth in the darkness ; and the darkness comprehended 3 

it not. 6 There was a man sent from God whose name was 

John. 7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the 

light, that all men through him might believe. 8 He was not 

that light, but was sent to bear witness of that light. 9 That 

was the true light that lighteth every man coming into the 

world. 

* 

10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and 
the world knew him not. 11 He came unto his own, and his own 
received him not. 12 But as many as received him, to them 
gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe 
on his name, 13 who were born not of blood, nor of the will of 
the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. 

* 

14 And the word was made flesh, and dwelt among us [And 
we behold his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father] 

1 The Gospel according to John was written at Ephesus, at the close of 
the first century. 

2 Or, face to face, or, at home with God. 

3 Overcame. 

213 



214 Tne Greatest Book Ever Written 

full of grace and truth. 15 John bare witness of him, and cried, 
saying, "This was he of whom I spoke, 'He that cometh after me 
is preferred before me,' for he was before me." 16 And of his 
fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. 17 For the 
law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus 
Christ. 

18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, 
who is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. 



JNrt <0hf 
Jesus the Prophet of God 



§1. THE TESTIMONY OF JOHN THE BAPTIST 

I. THE MANIFESTATION OF THE CHRIST 

a. The Voice in the Wilderness 

And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests 
and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who art thou?" 20 
And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, "I am not the 
Christ." 21 And they asked him, "What then? Art thou 
Elijah?" And he saith, "I am not." "Art thou that prophet?" 
And he answered, "No." 22 Then said they unto him, "Who 
art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. 
What sayest thou of thyself?" 23 He said, "I aw 

* * * 

'The voice of one crying in the wilderness, 
Make straight the way of the Lord,' 
* 

as said the prophet Isaiah." 



b. The Presence of the Christ 

24 And they who were sent were of the Pharisees. 25 And 
they asked him, and said unto him, "Why baptizest thou then, 
if thou be not that Christ, nor Elijah, neither that prophet?" 
26 John answered them, saying, "I baptize with water; but 
there standeth one among you, whom you know not; 27 he it is 
who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet 
I am not worthy to unloose." 28 These things were done in 
Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. 



c. The Lamb of God for the Sin of the World 

29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, 
"Behold the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world. 
30 This is he of whom I said, 'After me cometh a man who is 

1 Isa. 40:3. 

215 Chapter 1:19-30 



216 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

preferred before me:' for he was before me. 31 And I knew him 
not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel therefore am 
I come baptizing with water." 32 And John bare record, saying, 
"I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it 
abode upon him. 33 And I knew him not: but he that sent me 
to baptize with water, the same said unto me, 'Upon whom thou 
shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same 
is he that baptizeth with the Holy Spirit.' 34 And I saw, and 
bare record, that this is the Son of God." 



H. THE FIRST DISCIPLES OF JESUS 
a. The Call of Andrew and Peter 

35 Again the next day after John stood, and two of his dis- 
ciples; 36 and looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, "Be- 
hold the Lamb of God!" 37 And the two disciples heard him 
speak, and they followed Jesus. 38 Then Jesus turned, and saw 
them following, and saith unto them, "What seek ye?" They 
said unto him, "Rabbi [which is to say, Master], where dwellest 
thou?" 39 He saith unto them, "Come and see." They came 
and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it 
was about the tenth hour. 40 One of the two that heard John 
speak was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 41 He first findeth 
his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, "We have found 
the Messiah" [which is, being interpreted, the Christ]. 42 And 
he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, 
"Thou art Simon the son of John: thou shalt be called Cephas" 
[which is by interpretation, A stone]. 



b. The Call of Philip and Nathanael 

43 The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and 
he findeth Philip, and saith unto him, "Follow me." 44 Now 
Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. 45 Philip 
findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, "We have found him 
of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus 
of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." 46 And Nathanael said unto 
him, "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?" Philip saith 
unto him, "Come and see." 47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to 
him, and saith of him, "Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom 
is no guile!" 48 Nathanael saith unto him, "Whence knowest 
thou me?" Jesus answered and said unto him, "Before Philip 
called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee." 49 
Nathanael answered and said unto him, "Rabbi, thou art the 
Son of God; thou art the King of Israel." 50 Jesus answered 

Chapter 1:31-50 



1:51 The Gospel According to John 217 

and said unto him, "Because I said unto thee, 'I saw thee under 
the fig tree,' believest thou? thou shall see greater things than 
these." 51 And he saith unto him, "Verily, I say unto you, 
Hereafter you shall see the heaven open, and the angels of God 
ascending and descending upon the Son of man." 



§2. THE MARRIAGE AT CANA OF GALILEE 

THE TURNING OF WATER INTO WINE 

The Faith of the Disciples 

2 : 1 And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee ; 
and the mother of Jesus was there : 2 and both Jesus was called, 
and his disciples, to the marriage. 3 And when they wanted 
wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, "They have no wine." 
4 Jesus saith unto her, "Woman, what have I to do with thee? 
my hour is not yet come." 5 His mother said unto the servants, 
"Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it." 6 And there were set 
there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying 
of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece. 7 Jesus 
saith unto them, "Fill the waterpots with water." And they 
filled them up to the brim. 8 And he saith unto them, "Draw 
out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast." And they 
bare it. 9 When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that 
was made wine, and knew not whence it was [but the servants 
that drew the water knew], the governor of the feast called the 
bridegroom, 10 and saith unto him, "Every man at the begin- 
ning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, 
then that which is worse : but thou hast kept the good wine until 
now." 11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of 
Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed 
on him. 



§3. THE CLEANSING OF THE TEMPLE 

THE FORECAST OF THE RESURRECTION 

The Faith of the Disciples in Christ 

12 After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, 
and his brothers, and his disciples: and they continued there not 
many days. 13 And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus 
went up to Jerusalem, 14 and found in the temple those that 
sold oxen, and sheep and doves, and the changers of money 
sitting: 15 and when he had made a scourge of small cords, 
he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; 
and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; 

Chapter 1:51-2:15 



218 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

16 and said unto them that sold doves, "Take these things 
hence: make not my Father's house a house of merchandise.'* 

17 And his disciples remembered that it was written, "The 
zeal of thy house hath eaten me up." 1 18 Then answered 
the Jews and said unto him, "What sign showest thou unto us, 
seeing that thou doest these things?" 19 Jesus answered and 
said unto them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will 
raise it up." 20 Then said the Jews, "Forty and six years was 
this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?" 
21 But he spoke of the temple of his body. 22 When therefore 
he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had 
said this unto them ; and they believed the scripture, and the word 
that Jesus had said. 



§4. THE INTERVIEW WITH NICODEMUS 

THE ATONEMENT AND THE NEW BIRTH 

The Great Love of God for the World 

23 Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the 
feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles 
that he did. 24 But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, 
because he knew all men, 25 and needed not that any should 
testify of man : for he knew what was in man. 3 : 1 But there 
was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the 
Jews : 2 the same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, 
"Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God, for no 
man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with 
him." 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, "Verily, verily, I 
say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the 
kingdom of God." 4 Nicodemus saith unto him, "How can a 
man be born when he is old ? can he enter the second time into his 
mother's womb, and be born?" 5 Jesus answered, "Verily, 
verily, I say unto thee, "Except a man be born of water and of 
the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That 
which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the 
Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, 'You must be 
born again.' 8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou 
hear est the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, 
and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit." 
9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, "How can these 
things be?" 10 Jesus answered and said unto him, "Art thou a 
master of Israel, and knowest not these things? 11 Verily, 
verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify 
that we have seen; and you receive not our witness. 12 If I have 

1 Ps. 69:9. 

Chapter 2:16-3:12 



3:13 The Gospel According to John 219 

told you earthly things, and you believe not, how shall you believe 
if I tell you of heavenly things? 13 And no man hath ascended 
up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son 
of man who is in heaven. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent 
in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: 15 
that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have 
eternal life. 16 For 1 God so loved the world, that he gave his 
only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not 
perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son 
into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through 
him might be saved. 18 He that believeth on him is not con- 
demned : but he that believeth not is condemned already, because 
he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 
19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, 
and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds 
were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, 
neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 
21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds 
may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. 



§5. THE WITNESS OF JOHN THE BAPTIST 

THE GIFT OF GOD FROM HEAVEN 

The Pre-Eminence of Jesus Christ 

22 After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land 
of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized. 23 
And John also was baptizing in JEnon near to Salim, because 
there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized. 
24 For John was not yet cast into prison. 25 Then there arose 
a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about 
purifying. 26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, 
"Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou 
barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to 
him. 27 John answered and said, "A man can receive nothing, 
except it be given him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me 
witness, that I said, 'I am not the Christ,' but, that I am sent 
before him. 29 He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but 
the friend of the bridegroom, who standeth and heareth him, 
rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy 
therefore is fulfilled. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease. 
31 He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the 
earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth; he that cometh from 
heaven is above all. 32 And what he hath seen and heard, that 

1 Vs. 16-21. This is thought by many to be a comment of John. 

Chapter 3:13-32 



220 The Greatest Book Ever Written Par t I 

he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. 33 He that 
hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. 
34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: 
for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. 35 The 
Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. 
36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life; and he 
that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of 
God abideth on him." 



§6. THE MINISTRY OF JESUS IN SAMARIA 

THE UNIVERSALITY OF REDEMPTION 

a. The Woman at the Well 

4:1 When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had 
heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John 2 
[though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples], 3 he left 
Judaea, and departed again into Galilee. 4 And he must needs 
go through Samaria. 5 Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, 
which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob 
gave to his son Joseph. 6 Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus 
therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: 
and it was about the sixth hour. 7 There cometh a woman of 
Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, "Give me to drink." 
8 [For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat]. 9 
Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, "How is it that thou, 
being a Jew, askest drink of me, who am a woman of Samaria? 
[For the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans]. 10 Jesus 
answered and said unto her, "If thou knewest the gift of God, 
and who it is that saith to thee, 'Give me to drink,' thou wouldest 
have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water." 
11 The woman saith unto him, "Sir, thou hast nothing to draw 
with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that 
living water? 12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, who 
gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and 
his cattle?" 13 Jesus answered and said unto her, "Whosoever 
drinketh of this water shall thirst again: 14 but whosoever 
drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; 
but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water 
springing up into everlasting life." 15 The woman saith unto 
him, "Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come 
hither to draw." 

b. The Announcement of the Messiah 

16 Jesus saith unto her, "Go, call thy husband, and come 
hither. " 17 The woman answered and said, ' ' I have no husband. ' ' 

Chapter 3:33-4:17 



4:18 The Gospel According to John 221 

Jesus said unto her, "Thou hast well said, 'I have no husband;' 
18 for thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast 
is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly." 19 The woman 
saith unto him, "Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. 20 Our 
fathers worshipped in this mountain; and you say, that in Jeru- 
salem is the place where men ought to worship." 21 Jesus 
saith unto her, "Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when 
you shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship 
the Father. 22 You worship you know not what: we know 
what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. 23 But the hour 
cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the 
Father in spirit and in truth : for the Father seeketh such to wor- 
ship him. 24 God is sl Spirit: and they that worship him must 
worship him in spirit and in truth." 25 The woman saith unto 
him, "I know that the Messiah cometh, who is called Christ: 
when he is come, he will tell us all things." 26 Jesus saith unto 
her, "I that speak unto thee am he." 



c. The Return of the Disciples 

27 And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he 
talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? 
or, Why talkest thou with her? 28 The woman then left her 
waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, 
29 "Come, see a man who told me all things that ever I did: is 
not this the Christ?" 30 Then they went out of the city and 
came unto him. 31 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, 
saying, "Master, eat." 32 But he said unto them, "I have 
meat to eat that you know not of." 33 Therefore said the 
disciples one to another, "Hath any man brought him aught to 
eat?" 34 Jesus saith unto them, "My meat is to do the will of 
him that sent me, and to finish his work. 35 Say not ye, 'There 
are yet four months, and then cometh harvest?' behold, I say unto 
you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white 
already to harvest. 36 And he that reapeth receiveth wages, 
and gathereth fruit unto life eternal : that both he that soweth and 
he that reapeth may rejoice together. 37 And herein is that 
saying true, 'One soweth, and another reapeth.' 38 I sent you 
to reap that whereon you bestowed no labour ; other men laboured, 
and you are entered into their labours." 



d. The Belief of the Samaritans 

39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him 
for the saying of the woman, who testified, "He told me all that 
ever I did." 40 So when the Samaritans were come unto him, 

Chapter 4:18-40 



222 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

they besought him that he would tarry with them : and he abode 
there two days. 41 And many more believed because of his 
own word; 42 and said unto the woman, "Now we believe, 
not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and 
know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world." 



§7. THE HEALING OF THE NOBLEMAN'S SON 

THE SECOND MIRACLE OF JESUS AT CANA 

The Great Faith of the Nobleman 

43 Now after two days he departed thence, and went into 
Galilee. 44 For Jesus himself testified, that a prophet hath 
no honour in his own country. 45 Then when he was come into 
Galilee, the Galilaeans received him, having seen all ,things that 
he did at the feast: for they also went unto the feast. 46 So 
Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water 
wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick 
at Capernaum. 47 When he heard that Jesus had come out of 
Judaea into Galilee, he went unto him, and besought him that 
he would come down, and heal his son: for he was at the point of 
death. 48 Then said Jesus unto him, ' 'Except you see signs 
and wonders, you will not believe." 49 The nobleman saith 
unto him, "Sir, come down ere my child die." 50 Jesus saith 
unto him, "Go thy way; thy son liveth." And the man believed 
the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and he went his way. 
51 And as he was now going down, his servants met him, saying, 
"Thy son liveth." 52 Then inquired he of them the hour when 
he began to mend. And they said unto him, "Yesterday at the 
seventh hour the fever left him." 53 So the father knew that 
it was at the same hour, in which Jesus said unto him, "Thy son 
liveth:" and himself believed, and his whole house. 



She first Summary 

54 This is again the second miracle that Jesus did, when he was 
come out of Judaea into Galilee. 



Part ©too 
Jesus the King of Israel 



§1. THE HEALING OF THE MAN AT THE POOL 
THE DOCTRINE OF THE SON OF GOD 

a. The Healing on the Sabbath 

After this there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to 
Jerusalem. 2 Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a 
pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having 
five porches. 3 In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, 
of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water. 4 
For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and 
troubled the water; whosoever then first after the troubling of 
the water stepped in was made whole of whatever disease he had. 
5 And a certain man was there, who had an infirmity thirty and 
eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had 
been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, "Wilt thou 
be made whole?" 7 The impotent man answered him, "Sir, I 
have no man, when the the water is troubled, to put me into the 
pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me." 
8 Jesus saith unto him, "Rise, take up thy bed, and walk." 9 
And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, 
and walked. 



b. The Complaint of the Jews 

And on the same day was the sabbath. 10 The Jews there- 
fore said unto him that was cured, "It is the sabbath day: it is 
not lawful for thee to carry thy bed." 11 He answered them, 
"He that made me whole, the same said unto me, 'Take up thy 
bed and walk.' " 12 Then asked they him, "What man is that 
who said unto thee, 'Take up thy bed and walk'? " 13 And he 
that was healed knew not who it was: for Jesus had conveyed 
himself away, a multitude being in that place. 14 Afterward 
Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, "Behold, 
thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto 
thee." 15 The man departed, and told the Jews that it was 
Jesus who had made him whole. 16 And therefore did the 
Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had 

223 Chapter 5:1-16 



224 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

done these things on the sabbath day. 17 But Jesus answered 
them, "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work." 18 There- 
fore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he had not 
only broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, 
making himself equal with God. 



c. The Reply of Jesus 

19 Then answered Jesus and said unto them, "Verily, verily 
I say unto you, "The Son can do nothing of himself, but what 
he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these 
also doeth the Son likewise. 20 For the Father loveth the Son, 
and showeth him all things that himself doeth: and he will show 
him greater works than these, that you may marvel. 21 For 
as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so 
the Son quickeneth whom he will. 22 For the Father judgeth 
no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: 23 
that all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the 
Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the 
Father who hath sent him. 24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, 
He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, 
hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; 
but is passed from death unto life. 25 Verily, verily, I say unto 
you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear 
the voice of the Son of God; and they that hear shall live. 26 
For as the Father hath life in himself, so hath he given to the 
Son to have life in himself; 27 and hath given him authority 
to execute judgment also because he is the Son of man. 28 
Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in which all that are 
in the graves, shall hear his voice, 29 and shall come forth; they 
that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that 
have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. 



d. The Witnesses to the Son of God 

30 "I can of my own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and 
my judgment is just ; because I seek not my own will, but the will 
of the Father who hath sent me. 31 If I bear witness of myself, 
my witness is not true. 32 There is another that beareth witness 
of me; and I know that the witness that he witnesseth of me is 
true. 33 You sent unto John, and he bore witness unto the truth. 
34 But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I 
say, that you might be saved. 35 He was a burning and a 
shining light: and you were willing for a season to rejoice in his 
light. 36 But I have greater witness than that of John: for the 
works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works 

Chapter 5:17-36 



5:37 The Gospel According to John 225 

that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me. 37 
And the Father himself, who hath sent me, hath borne witness of 
me. You have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his 
form. 38 And you have not his word abiding in you : for whom 
he hath sent, him you believe not. 39 You search the scriptures; 
for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they 
that testify of me. 40 And you will not come to me that you 
might have life. 41 I receive not honour from men. 42 But 
I know you that you have not the love of God in you. 43 I am 
come in my Father's name, and you receive me not; if another 
shall come in his own name, him you will receive. 44 How can 
you believe, who receive honour one of another, and seek not the 
honour that comeih from God only? 45 Do not think that I 
will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, 
even Moses, in whom you trust. 46 For had you believed Moses, 
you would have believed me: for he wrote of me. 47 But if 
you believe not his writings, how shall you believe my words?" 



§2. THE FEEDING OF THE FIVE THOUSAND 

I. THE BREAD OF LIFE FROM HEAVEN 

a. The Plot to Make Jesus King 

6:1 After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, 
which is the sea of Tiberias. 2 And a great multitude followed 
him, because they saw his miracles which he did on them that 
were diseased. 3 And Jesus went up into a mountain, and 
there sat with his disciples. 4 And the passover, a feast of 
the Jews, was nigh. 5 When Jesus then lifted up his eyes, and 
saw a great multitude come unto him, he saith unto Philip, 
"Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?" 6 And this 
he said to prove him; for he knew what he would do. 7 Philip 
answered him, "Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not suffi- 
cient for them, that every one of them may take a little." 8 
One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, saith unto 
him, 9 "There is a lad here, who hath five barley loaves and two 
small fishes: but what are they among so many?" 10 And Jesus 
said, "Make the men sit down." Now there was much grass in 
the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. 
11 And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he 
distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were 
set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. 12 
When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, "Gather up the 
fragments that remain, that nothing be lost." 13 Therefore they 
gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the frag- 
ments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above 

Chapter 5:37-6:13 



226 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

unto them that had eaten. 14 Then those men, when they had 
seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, "This is of a truth that 
prophet that should come into the world. 15 When Jesus there- 
fore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to 
make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself 
alone. 

b. The Walking of Jesus on the Sea 

16 And when even was now come, his disciples went down 
unto the sea, 17 and entered into a ship, and went over the 
sea toward Capernaum. And it was now dark and Jesus had not 
come to them. 18 And the sea arose by reason of a great wind 
that blew. 19 So when they had rowed about five and twenty or 
thirty furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing 
near unto the ship : and they were afraid. 20 But he saith unto 
them, "It is I: be not afraid." 21 Then they willingly received 
him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land 
whither they went. 



c. The Pursuit of the Multitude 

22 The day following, when the people that stood on the 
other side of the sea saw that there was no other boat there, 
save that one whereinto his disciples were entered, and that 
Jesus went not with his disciples into the boat, but that his dis- 
ciples were gone away alone 23 [howbeit there came other 
boats from Tiberias nigh unto the place where they did eat bread, 
after that the Lord had given thanks;] 24 when the people 
therefore saw that Jesus was not there, neither his disciples, 
they also took shipping, and came to Capernaum, seeking for 
Jesus. 25 And when they found him on the other side of the 
sea, they said unto him, "Rabbi, when earnest thou hither?" 
26 Jesus answered them and said, "Verily, verily, I sa}^ unto 
you, You seek me, not because you saw the miracles, but because you 
did eat of the loaves, and were filled. 27 Labour not for the meat 
that perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlast- 
ing life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath 
God the Father sealed." 28 Then said they unto him, "What 
shall we do that we might work the works of God?" 29 Jesus 
answered and said unto them, "This is the work of God, that 
you believe on him whom he hath sent." 30 They said there- 
fore unto him, "What sign showest thou then, that we may see 
and believe? what dost thou work? 31 Our fathers did eat 
manna in the desert: as it is written, 'He gave them bread from 
heaven to eat.'" 1 32 Then Jesus said unto them, "Verily, 

IPs. 78:24. 

Chapter 6:14-32 



6:33 The Gospel According to John 227 

verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from 
heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. 
33 For the bread of God is he that cometh down from heaven, and 
giveth life unto the world. 34 Then said they unto him, "Lord, 
evermore give us this bread." 35 And Jesus said unto them, 
"I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; 
and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. 36 But I said 
unto you, That you also have seen me, and believe not. 37 All 
that the Father hath given me shall come to me; and him that 
cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. 38 For I came down 
from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him that sent 
me. 39 And this is the Father's will that hath sent me, that of 
all that he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise 
it up again at the last day. 40 And this is the will of him that 
sent me, that every one that seeth the Son, and believeth on 
him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him. up at the 
last day." 



d. The Bread of Life from Heaven 

41 The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, "I am 
the bread that came down from heaven." 42 And they said, 
"Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we 
know? how is it then that he saith, 'I came down from heaven'? " 
43 Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, "Murmur not 
among yourselves. 44 No man can come to me, except the 
Father that hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at 
the last day. 45 It is written in the prophets, 'And they shall 
be all taught of God.' Every man therefore that hath heard, 
and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. 46 Not that 
any man hath seen the Father, save he that is of God, he hath 
seen the Father. 47 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that 
believeth on me hath everlasting life. 48 I am that bread of 
life. 49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are 
dead. 50 This is the bread that cometh down from heaven, 
that a man may eat thereof, and not die. 51 I am the living 
bread that came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, 
he shall live forever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, 
which I will give for the life of the world." 



H. THE BLOOD OF THE ATONEMENT 
a. The Teaching of Jesus 

52 The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, "How 
can this man give us his flesh to eat?" 53 Then Jesus said 
unto them, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except you eat the 

Chapter 6:33-53 



228 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, you have no life in 
you. 54 Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood hath 
eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For 
my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 56 He 
that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, 
and I in him. 57 As the living Father hath sent me, and I live 
by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. 
58 This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as 
your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this 
bread shall live for ever." 59 These things said he in the syna- 
gogue as he taught in Capernaum. 



b. The Doubt of the Disciples 

60 Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard 
this, said, "This is a hard saying; who can hear it?" 61 When 
Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said 
unto them, "Doth this offend you? 62 What if you shall see 
the Son of man ascend up where he was before? 63 It is the 
spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words 
that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. 64 But 
there are some of you that believe not." For Jesus knew from 
the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should 
betray him. 65 And he said, "Therefore said I unto you, that 
no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my 
Father." 



c. The Great Confession of Peter 

66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked 
no more with him. 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, "Will 
you also go away?" 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, 
to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. 69 
And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son 
of the living God." 70 Jesus answered them, "Have not I chosen 
you twelve, and one of you is a devil?" 71 He spoke of Judas 
Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, 
being one of the twelve. 



§3. THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES 

I. THE DEPARTURE OF JESUS TO JERUSALEM 

a. The Counsel of Jesus' Brothers 

7:1 After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would 
not walk in Judaea, because the Jews sought to kill him. 2 

Chapter 6:54-7:2 



7:3 The Gospel According to John 229 

Now the Jews' feast of tabernacles was at hand. 3 His brethren 
therefore said unto him, "Depart hence, and go into Judaea, that 
thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. 4 For 
there is no man that doeth any thing in secret, and he himself 
seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, show 
thyself to the world." 5 For neither did his brothers believe in 
him. 6 Then Jesus said unto them, "My time is not yet come: 
but your time is always ready. 7 The world cannot hate you; 
but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof 
are evil. 8 Go ye up to the feast : I go not up yet unto this feast; 
for my time is not yet come." 9 When he had said these words 
unto them, he abode still in Galilee. 



b. The State of Public Opinion 

10 But when his brothers had gone up, then went he also 
up unto the feast, not openly, but as it were in secret. 11 Then 
the Jews sought him at the feast, and said, "Where is he?" 12 
And there was much murmuring among the people concerning 
him: for some said, "He is a good man:" others said, "Nay, but 
he deceiveth the people." 13 Howbeit no man spoke openly of 
him for fear of the Jews. 



c. The Teaching in the Temple 

14 Now about the midst of the feast Jesus went up into the 
temple, and taught. 15 And the Jews marvelled, saying, "How 
knoweth this man letters, having never learned?" 16 Jesus 
answered them and said, "My doctrine is not mine, but his that 
sent me. 17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the 
doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. 
18 He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he 
that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no 
unrighteousness is in him. 19 Did not Moses give you the law 
and yet none of you keepeth the law ? Why do you go about to 
kill me?" 20 The people answered and said, "Thou hast a 
devil: who goeth about to kill thee?" 21 Jesus answered and 
said unto them, "I have done one work, and you all marvel. 22 
Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision [not because it is 
of Moses, but of the fathers]; and you on the sabbath day cir- 
cumcise a man. 23 If a man on the sabbath day receive cir- 
cumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken; are you 
angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on 
the sabbath day? 24 Judge not according to appearance, but 
judge righteous judgment." 

Chapter 7:3-24 



230 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

d. The Attempt to Arrest Jesus 

25 Then said some of them of Jerusalem, "Is not this he, 
whom they seek to kill? 26 But, lo, he speaketh boldly, and 
they say nothing unto him. Do the rulers know indeed that 
this is the very Christ? 27 Howbeit we know this man whence 
he is: but when Christ cometh, no man knoweth whence he is." 
28 Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, saying, "You 
both know me, and you know whence I am: and I am not come of 
myself, but he that sent me is true, whom you know not. 29 
But I know him: for I am from him, and he hath sent me." 30 
Then they sought to take him: but no man laid hands on him, 
because his hour was not yet come. 31 And many of the people 
believed on him, and said, "When Christ cometh, will he do 
more miracles than these which this man hath done?" 32 The 
Pharisees heard that the people murmured such things concern- 
ing him; and the Pharisees and the chief priests sent officers 
to take him. 33 Then said Jesus unto them, "Yet a little while 
am I with you, and then I go unto him that sent me. 34 You 
shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, thither you 
cannot come." 35 Then said the Jews among themselves, 
"Whither will he go, that we shall not find him? will he go unto 
the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles? 36 
What manner of saying is this that he said, 'You shall seek me, 
and shall not find me: and where I am thither you cannot come' ? " 



II. THE DOCTRINE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 
a. The Division Among the People 

37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood 
and cried, saying, "If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and 
drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, 
'Out of his inner self shall flow rivers of living water.'" 1 39 
[But this he spoke of the Spirit, which they that believe on him 
should receive: for the Holy Spirit was not yet given; because 
Jesus was not yet glorified]. 40 Many of the people therefore, 
when they heard this saying, said, "Of a truth this is the Prophet." 
41 Others said, "This is the Christ." But some said, "Shall 
Christ come out of Galilee?" 42 Hath not the scripture said, 
That Christ cometh of the seed of David, 2 and out of the town 
of Bethlehem, where David was?" 8 43 So there was a division 
among the people because of him. 44 And some of them would 
have taken him; but no man laid hands on him. 



i Isa. 12:3. 8 Ps. 132:11. » I. Sam. 16:1. 

Chapter 7:25-44 



7:45 The Gospel According to John 231 

b. The Report to the Sanhedrin 

45 Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; 
and they said unto them, "Why have you not brought him?" 

46 The officers answered, "Never man spoke like this man." 

47 Then answered they the Pharisees, "Are you also deceived? 

48 Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him? 

49 But this people who knoweth not the law are accursed." 

50 Nicodemus saith unto them, he that came to Jesus by night 
being one of them, 51 "Doth our law judge any man, before 
it hear him, and know what he doeth?" 52 They answered and 
said unto him, "Art thou also of Galilee? Search and look: 
for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet." 



c. [The Woman Taken in Sin: An Aside] 

53 And every man went unto his own house. 8 : 1 Jesus went 
unto the mount of Olives. 2 And early in the morning he came 
again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and 
he sat down and taught them. 3 And the scribes and Pharisees 
brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they 
had set her in the midst, 4 They said unto him, "Master, this 
woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. 5 Now Moses 
in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what 
sayest thou?" 6 This they said, tempting him, that they might 
have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his 
finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. 7 So 
when they continued asking him, he lifted himself up, and said 
unto them, "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast 
a stone at her." 8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on 
the ground. 9 And they that heard it, being convicted by their 
own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, 
even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman 
standing in the midst. 10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, 
and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, "Woman, where 
are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?" 11 
She said, "No man, Lord." And Jesus said unto her, "Neither 
do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." 



HI. THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD 
a. The Witness of Jesus 

12 Then spoke Jesus again unto them, saying, "I am the light 
of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, 
but shall have the light of life." 13 The Pharisees therefore said 
unto him, "Thou bearest record of thyself; thy record is not true." 

Chapter 7:45-8:13 



232 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

14 Jesus answered and said unto them, "Though I bear record of 
myself, yet my record is true: for I know whence I came, and 
whither I go; but you cannot tell whence I came, and whither I 
go. 15 You judge after the flesh; I judge no man. 16 And yet 
if I judge, my judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the 
Father that sent me. 17 It is also written in your law, that the 
testimony of two men is true. 18 I am one that bear witness 
of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me." 
19 Then said they unto him, "Where is thy Father?" Jesus 
answered, "You neither know me, nor my Father: if you had 
known me, you would have known my Father also." 20 These 
words spoke Jesus in the treasury, as he taught in the temple: 
and no man laid hands on him; for his hour was not yet come. 



b. The Forecast of the Crucifixion 

21 Then said Jesus again unto them, "I go my way, and you 
shall seek me, and shall die in your sins : whither I go, you cannot 
come." 22 Then said the Jews, "Will he kill himself?" because 
he saith, "Whither I go, you cannot come." 23 And he said 
unto them, "You are from beneath; I am from above: you are of 
this world; I am not of this world. 24 I said therefore unto 
you, that you shall die in your sins: for if you believe not that I 
am he, you shall die in your sins." 25 Then said they unto 
him, "Who art thou?" And Jesus saith unto them, "Even the 
same that I said unto you from the beginning. 26 I have many 
things to say and to judge of you: but he that sent me is true; 
and I speak to the world those things that I have heard of him." 

27 They understood not that he spoke to them of the Father. 

28 Then said Jesus unto them, "When you have lifted up the 
Son of man, then shall you know that I am he, and that I do 
nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak 
these things. 29 And he that sent me is with me: and the Father 
hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please 
him." 30 As he spoke these words, many believed on him. 



c. The Witness of the Father 

31 Then said Jesus to those Jews that believed on him, "If 
you continue in my word, then are you my disciples indeed; 32 
and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you 
free." 33 They answered him, "We are Abraham's seed, and 
were never in bondage to any man : how sayest thou, 'You shall be 
made free?' " 34 Jesus answered them, "Verily, verily, I say 
unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. 35 
And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son 

Chapter 8:14-35 



8:36 The Gospel According to John 233 

abideth ever. 36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, you 
shall be free indeed. 37 I know that you are Abraham's seed; 
but you seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you. 
38 I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and you do 
that which you have seen with your father." 39 They answered 
and said unto him, "Abraham is our father." Jesus saith unto 
them, "If you were Abraham's children, you would do the works of 
Abraham. 40 But now you seek to kill me, a man that hath told 
you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham. 

41 You do the deeds of your Father." Then said they to him, 
"We were not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God." 

42 Jesus said unto them, "If God were your Father, you would 
love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came 
I of myself, but he sent me. 43 Why do you not understand 
my speech? even because you cannot hear my word. 44 You 
are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father you will 
do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in 
the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh 
a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. 
45 And because I tell you the truth, you believe me not. 46 
Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, 
why do you not believe me ? 47 He that is of God heareth God's 
words: you therefore hear them not, because you are not of God." 
48 Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, "Say we not 
well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?" 49 Jesus 
answered, "I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and 
you dishonour me. 50 And I seek not my own glory: there is 
one that seeketh and judgeth. 51 Verily, verily, I say unto 
you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death." 52 
Then said the Jews unto him, "Now we know that thou hast a 
devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, 
'If a man keep my sayings, he shall never taste of death.' 53 
Art thou greater than our Father Arbaham, who is dead? and the 
prophets are dead: whom makest thou thyself?" 54 Jesus 
answered, "If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my 
Father that honoureth me; of whom you say, that he is your 
God: 55 yet you have not known him; but I know him: and if 
I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you, but 
I know him, and keep his saying. 56 Your father Abraham 
rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad." 57 Then 
said the Jews unto him, "Thou art not yet fifty years old, and 
hast thou seen Abraham?" 58 Jesus said unto them, "Verily, 
verily, I say unto you, 'Before Abraham was, I am.' ' : 59 Then 
took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and 
went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and 
so passed by. 

Chapter 8:36-59 



234 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

§4. THE HEALING OF THE MAN BORN BLIND 
THE TRUE KINGDOM OF GOD 

a. The Healing of the Blind Man on the Sabbath 

9 : 1 And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man who was blind 
from his birth. 2 And his disciples asked him, saying, "Master, 
who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?" 
3 Jesus answered, "Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: 
but that the works of God should be made manifest in him. 4 
I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the 
night cometh, when no man can work. 5 As long as I am in the 
world, I am the light of the world." 6 When he had thus spoken, 
he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed 
the eyes of the blind man with the clay, 7 and said unto him, 
"Go, wash in the pool of Siloam" [which is by interpretation, 
Sent]. He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing. 
8 The neighbors therefore, and they that before had seen him 
that was blind, said, "Is not this he that sat and begged?" 9 
Some said, "This is he:" others said, "He is like him:" but he 
said, "I am he." 10 Therefore said they unto him, "How were 
thine eyes opened?" 11 He answered and said, "A man that is 
called Jesus made clay, and anointed my eyes, and said unto 
me, 'Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash:' and I went and washed, 
and I received sight." 12 Then said they unto him, "Where is 
he?" He said, "I know not." 



b. The Complaint of the Jews 

13 They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was 
blind. 14 And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the 
clay, and opened his eyes. 15 Then again the Pharisees also 
asked him how he received his sight. He said unto them, "He 
put clay upon my eyes, and I washed, and do see." 16 There- 
fore said some of the Pharisees, "This man is not of God, because 
he keepeth not the sabbath day." Others said, "How can a 
man that is a sinner do such miracles?" And there was a division 
among them. 17 They said unto the blind man again, "What 
sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes?" He said, 
"He is a prophet." 18 But the Jews did not believe concerning 
him, that he had been blind, and receiveth his sight, until they 
called the parents of him that had received his sight. 19 And 
they asked them, saying, "Is this your son, who you say was 
born blind? How then doth he now see?" 20 His parents an- 
swered them and said, "We know that this is our son, and that he 
was born blind: 21 but by what means he now seeth, we know 
not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not. He is of age; 

Chapter 9:1-21 



9:22 The Gospel According to John 235 

ask him: he shall speak for himself." 22 These words spoke his 
parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed 
already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should 
be put out of the synagogue. 23 Therefore said his parents, 
"He is of age: ask him." 24 Then again called they the man 
that was blind, and said unto him, "Give God the praise: we know 
that this man is a sinner." 25 He answered and said, "Whether 
he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas 
I was blind, now I see." 26 Then said they to him again, "What 
did he do to thee? How opened he thine eyes?" 27 He answered 
them, "I have told you already, and you did not hear: wherefore 
would you hear it again? Will you also be his disciples?" 28 
Then they reviled him, and said, "Thou art his disciple; but we 
are Moses' disciples. 29 We know that God spoke unto Moses: 
as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is." 30 The man 
answered and said unto them, "Why herein is a marvellous thing, 
that you know from whence he is, and yet he hath opened my eyes. 
31 Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man 
be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth. 32 
Since the world began, was it not heard that any man opened 
the eyes of one that was born blind. 33 If this man were not 
of God, he could do nothing." 34 They answered and said unto 
him, "Thou wast altogether born in sin, and dost thou teach 
us?" And they cast him out. 



c. The Condemnation of the Jews 

35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had 
found him, he said unto him, "Dost thou believe on the Son of 
God?" 36 He answered and said, "Who is he, Lord, that I 
might believe on him?" 37 And Jesus said unto him, "Thou 
hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh to thee." 38 
he said "Lord, I believe." And he worshipped him. 39 And 
Jesus said "For judgment I am come into this world, that they 
that see not might see; and that they that see might be made blind." 
40 And some of the Pharisees who were with him heard these 
words and said unto him, "Are we blind also?" 41 Jesus said 
unto them, "If you were blind, you should have no sin: but now 
you say, 'We see;' therefore your sin remaineth." 



§5. THE PARABLE OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD 

THE KINGDOM OF GOD CONCLUDED 

a. The Sheepfold and the Shepherd 

10:1 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not 
by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, 

Chapter 9:22-10:1 



236 Trie Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

the same is a thief and a robber. 2 But he that entereth in by 
the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the porter 
openeth; and the sheep hear his voice, and he calleth his own 
sheep by name, and leadeth them out. 4 And when he putteth 
forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow 
him: for they know his voice. 5 And a stranger will they not 
follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of 
strangers." 6 This parable spoke Jesus unto them: but they 
understood not what things they were which he spoke unto them. 



b. The Voluntary Sacrifice 

7 Then said Jesus unto them again, "Verily, verily, I say unto 
you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All that ever came before 
me are thieves and robbers : but the sheep did not hear them. 9 

I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and 
shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10 The thief cometh not, 
but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they 
might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 

II I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for 
the sheep. 12 But he that is a hireling, and not the shepherd, 
whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth 
the sheep, and fleeth and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth 
the sheep. 13 The hireling fleeth,, because he is an hireling, 
and careth not for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd, and 
know my sheep, and am known of mine. 15 As the Father 
knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life 
for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this 
fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and 
there shall be one fold and one shepherd. 17 Therefore doth my 
Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it 
again. 18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of my- 
self. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it 
again. This commandment have I received of my Father." 



c. The Division among the Jews 

19 There was a division therefore again among the Jews for 
these sayings. 20 And many of them said, "He hath a devil, 
and is mad; why hear ye Mm?" 21 Others said, "These are not 
the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes 
of the blind?" 

d. The Attempt to Stone Jesus 

22 And it was at Jerusalem the feast of dedication, and it 
was winter. 23 And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon's 

Chapter 10:2-23 



10:24 The Gospel According to John 237 

porch. 24 Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto 
him, "How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the 
Christ, tell us plainly." 25 Jesus answered them, "I told you, 
and you believed not : the works that I do in my Father's name, 
they bear witness of me. 26 But you believe not, because you 
are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. 27 My sheep hear my 
voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 and I give 
unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall 
any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who gave 
them unto me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck 
them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and my Father are one." 
31 Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. 32 Jesus 
answered them, "Many good works have I showed you from my 
Father; for which of those works do you stone me?" 33 The 
Jews answered him, "For a good work we stone thee not; but for 
blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself 
God." 34 Jesus answered them, "Is it not written in your law, 
'I said, You are gods?' 1 35 If he called them gods, unto whom 
the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; 36 
say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the 
world, 'Thou blasphemest;' because I said, T am the Son of God'? 
37 If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. 38 But 
if I do, though you believe me not, believe the works: that you 
may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him." 
39 Therefore they sought again to take him: but he escaped out 
of their hand. 



§6. THE RAISING OF LAZARUS AT BETHANY 

THE DOCTRINE OF THE RESURRECTION 

a. The Sojourn Beyond the Jordan 

40 And he went away again beyond the Jordan into the place 
where John at first baptized; and there he abode. 41 And 
many resorted unto him, and said, "John did no miracle: but 
all things that John spoke of this man were true." 42 And 
many believed on him there. 



b. The Call of Jesus to Bethany 

11:1 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, 
the town of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 [It was that Mary 
who anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with 
her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick]. 3 Therefore his 
sisters sent unto him, saying, "Lord, behold, he whom thou 

iPs. 82:6. 

Chapter 10:24-11:3 



238 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

lovest is sick." 4 When Jesus heard that, he said, 'This sick- 
ness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of 
God might be glorified thereby." 5 Now Jesus loved Martha, 
and her sister, and Lazarus. 6 When he heard therefore that he 
was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. 
7 Then after that he saith to his disciples, "Let us go into Judaea 
again." 8 His disciples say unto him, "Master, the Jews of 
late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again?" 9 
Jesus answered, "Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any 
man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light 
of this world. 10 But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, 
because there is no light in him." 11 These things said he: and 
after that he saith unto them, "Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but 
I go, that I may wake him. out of sleep." 12 Then said his 
disciples, "Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well." 13 Howbeit 
Jesus spoke of his death: but they thought that he had spoken 
of taking rest in sleep. 14 Then said Jesus unto them plainly, 
"Lazarus is dead. 15 And I am glad for your sakes that I was 
not there, to the intent you may believe; nevertheless let us go 
unto him." 16 Then said Thomas, who is called Didymus, 
unto his fellow-disciples, "Let us also go, that we may die with 
him." 

c. The Raising of Lazarus from the Dead 

17 Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the 
grave four days already. 18 Now Bethany was nigh unto 
Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off: 19 and many of the Jews 
came to Mary and Martha, to comfort them concerning their 
brother. 20 Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was 
coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house. 21 
Then said Martha unto Jesus, "Lord, if thou hadst been here, 
my brother had not died. 22 But I know, that even now, what- 
soever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. 23 Jesus 
saith unto her, "Thy brother shall rise again." 24 Martha 
saith unto him, "I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection 
at the last day." 25 Jesus said unto her, "I am the resurrection 
and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet 
shall he live : 26 and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall 
never die. Believest thou this?" 27 She saith unto him, "Yea, 
Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which 
should come into the world." 28 And when she had so said, she 
went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, "The 
Master is come, and calleth for thee." 29 As soon as she heard 
that she arose quickly, and came unto him. 30 Now Jesus was 
not yet come into the town, but was in the place where Martha 
met him. 31 The Jews then who were with her in the house, 

Chapter 11:4-31 



11:32 The Gospel According to John 239 

and comforted her, when they saw Mary, that she rose up hastily 
and went out, followed her, saying, "She goeth unto the grave 
to weep there." 32 Then when Mary was come where Jesus 
was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, 
"Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died." 33 
When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping 
who came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled, 
34 and said, "Where have you laid him?" They said unto him, 
"Lord, come and see." 35 Jesus wept. 36 Then said the Jews, 
"Behold how he loved him!" 31 And some of them said, "Could 
not this man, who opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that 
even this man should not have died?" 38 Jesus therefore again 
groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a 
stone lay upon it. 39 Jesus said, "Take ye away the stone." 
Martha, the sister of him who was dead, saith unto him, "Lord, 
by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days." 40 
Jesus saith unto her, "Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldst 
believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?" 41 Then they 
took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And 
Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, "Father, I thank thee that thou 
hast heard me. 42 And I knew that thou hearest me always: 
but because of the people who stand by I said it, that they may 
believe that thou hast sent me." 43 And when he thus had 
spoken, he cried with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come forth." 44 
And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with 
grave clothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. 
Jesus saith unto them, "Loose him, and let him go." 



d. The Report to the Authorities 

45 Then many of the Jews who came to Mary, and had seen 
the things that Jesus did, believed on him. 46 But some of them 
went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them what things 
Jesus had done. 



e. The Action of the Sanhedrin 

47 Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, 
and said, "What do we? for this man doeth many miracles. 48 
If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the 
Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation." 
49 And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that 
same year, said unto them, "You know nothing at all, 50 nor 
consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the 
people, and that the whole nation perish not." 51 And this spoke 
he not of himself : but being high priest that year, he prophesied 

Chapter 11:32-51 



240 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

that Jesus should die for that nation; 52 and not for that nation 
only, but that also he should gather together in one the children 
of God who were scattered abroad. 53 Then from that day 
forth they took counsel together for to put him to death. 



§7. THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM 

I. THE STATE OF OPINION IN JERUSALEM 

The Sojourn of Jesus at Ephraim 

54 Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews; 
but went thence unto a country near to the wilderness, into a 
city called Ephraim, and there continued with his disciples. 55 
And the Jews' passover was nigh at hand: and many went out 
of the country up to Jerusalem before the passover, to purify 
themselves. 56 Then sought they for Jesus, and spoke among 
themselves, as they stood in the temple, "What think ye, that 
he will not come to the feast?" 57 Now both the chief priests 
and the pharisees had given a commandment, that, if any knew 
where he was, he should show it, that they might take him. 



II. THE ARRIVAL OF JESUS AT BETHANY 
a. The Anointing of Jesus 

12: 1 Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, 
where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom he raised from the 
dead. 2 There they made him a supper; and Martha served: 
but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him. 3 
Then Mary took a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, 
and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: 
and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment. 4 
Then said one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, who 
should betray him, 5 "Why was not this ointment sold for 
three hundred pence, and given to the poor?" 6 This he said, 
not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and 
had the bag, and bare what was put therein. 7 Then Jesus said, 
"Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this. 
8 For the poor you have always with you; but me you have not 
always." 



b. The Action against Lazarus 

9 Many people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there, 
and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see 
Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 But the 

Chapter 11:52-12:10 



12:11 The Gospel According to John 241 

chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus to death ; 1 1 
because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, 
and believed on Jesus. 



HI. THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY INTO THE CITY 
a. The Later Belief of the Disciples 

12 On the next day many people that were come to the feast, 
when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, 13 took 
branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried: 

* * * 

"Hosanna! 
Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh 
in the name of the Lord! " l 
* 

14 And Jesus when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as 
it is written. 15 "Fear not, daughter of Zion: behold, thy King 
cometh, sitting on an ass's colt." 2 16 These things understood 
not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified then 
remembered they that these things were written of him, and 
that they had done these things unto him. 17 The people 
therefore that were with him when he called Lazarus out of the 
grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record. 18 For this 
cause also the people met him, for they had heard that he had 
done this miracle. 19 The Pharisees therefore said among 
themselves, "Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? behold, the 
world is gone after him." 



b. The Belief of the Gentiles 

20 And there were certain Greeks among them that came up 
to worship at the feast: 21 The same came therefore to Philip, 
who was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, "Sir, 
we would see Jesus." 22 Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: 
and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus. 23 And Jesus answered 
them, saying, "The Hour is come, that the Son of man should 
be glorified. 24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn 
of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it 
die, it bringeth forth much fruit. 25 He that loveth his life 
shall lose it ; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it 
unto life eternal. 26 If any man serve me, let him follow me; 
and where I am, there shall also my servant be : if any man serve 
me, him will my Father honour. 27 Now is my soul troubled; 
and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for 

*Ps. 118:25. 2 Zech. 9:9. 

Chapter 12:11-27 



242 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

this cause came I unto this hour. 28 Father, glorify thy name." 
Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, "I have both 
glorified it, and will glorify it again." 29 The people therefore 
that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, 
"An angel spoke to him." 30 Jesus answered and said, "This 
voice came not because of me, but for your sakes. 31 Now is 
the judgment of this world : now shall the prince of this world be 
cast out. 32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw 
all men unto me." 33 This he said, signifying what death he 
should die. 34 The people answered him, "We have heard out 
of the law that Christ abideth for ever: and how say est thou, 
'The Son of man must be lifted up'? who is this Son of man?" 
35 Then said Jesus unto them, "Yet a little while is the light 
with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness come 
upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither 
he goeth. 36 While you have the light, believe in the light, 
that you may become the children of light." 



c. The Disbelief of the Jews 

These things spoke Jesus, and departed, and did hide him- 
self from them. 37 But though he had done so many miracles 
before them, yet they believed not on him: 38 that the saying 
of Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spoke : 

* * * 

"Lord, who hath believed our report? 

And to whom hath the arm of the Lord 

been revealed?" 1 

* 

39 Therefore they could not believe, because that Isaiah said 

again : 

* * * 

40 "He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened 
their heart ; 
That they should not see with their eyes, 

nor understand with their heart, 
And be converted, 
And I should heal them." 2 
* 

41 These things said Isaiah, when he saw his glory, and spoke 
of him. 42 Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many 
believed on him ; not because of the Pharisees they did not confess 
him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: 43 for they 
loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. 

!Isa. 53:1. 2 Isa. 6:10. 

Chapter 11:28-43 



12:50 The Gospel According to John 243 

She Setmtfc Summary 

44 Jesus cried and said: 

"He that belie veth on me, belie veth not on me, 
but on him that sent me. 

* 

45 And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me. 

* 

46 I am come a light into the world, that whoso- 
ever belie veth on me should not abide in darkness. 

* 

47 And if any man hear my words, and believe 
not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the 
world, but to save the world. 

* 

48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my 
words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that 
I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the 
last day. 

49 For I have not spoken of myself; but the 
Father who sent me, he gave me a commandment, 
what I should say, and what I should speak. 

* 

50 And I know that his commandment is life 
everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as 
the Father said unto me, so I speak." 



Part (Efcm 
Jesus the Priest of the People 



§1. THE LAST SUPPER WITH THE APOSTLES 

THE HUMILITY OF JESUS 

a. The Washing of the Apostles' Feet 

Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that 
his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto 
the Father, having loved his own that were in the world, he loved 
them unto the end. 2 And supper being ended, the devil now 
put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him; 

3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his 
hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God; 

4 he riseth from the supper, and laid aside his garments ; and took 
a towel, and girded riimself. 5 After that he poureth water into 
a basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them 
with the towel wherewith he was girded. 6 Then cometh he 
to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, "Lord, dost thou 
wash my feet?" 7 Jesus answered and said unto him, "What I 
do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter." 8 
Peter saith unto him, "Thou shalt never wash my feet." Jesus 
answered him, "If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me." 
9 Simon Peter saith unto him, "Lord, not my feet only, but also 
my hands and my head." 10 Jesus saith to him, "He that is 
washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: 
and you are clean, but not all." 11 For he knew who should 
betray him; therefore said he, "You are not all clean." 



b. The Forecast of the Betrayal 

12 So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his gar- 
ments, and was set down again, he said unto them, "Know ye 
what I have done to you? 13 You call me Master and Lord; and 
you say well; for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Master, 
have washed your feet; you also ought to wash one another's 
feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do 
as I have done to you. 16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The 
servant is not greater than his lord ; neither he that is sent greater 

245 Chapter 13:1-16 



246 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

than he that sent him. 17 If you know these things, happy 
are you if you do them. 18 I speak not of you all: I know whom 
I have chosen: but that the scripture might be fulfilled: 

* * * 

'He that eateth bread with me 
Hath lifted up his heel against me."' 1 
* 

19 Now I tell you before it come, that when it is come to pass, 
you may believe that I am he. 20 Verily, verily, I say unto 
you, He that receiveth whom I send receiveth me; and he that 
receiveth me receiveth him that sent me." 



c. The Departure of Judas from the Room 

21 When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and 
testified, and said, ' 'Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of 
you shall betray me." 22 Then the disciples looked one on 
another, doubting of whom he spoke. 23 Now there was leaning 
on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. 24 
Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask 
who it should be of whom he spoke. 25 He then lying on Jesus' 
breast saith unto him, "Lord, who is it?" 26 Jesus answered, 
"He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it." 
And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, 
the son of Simon. 27 And after the sop Satan entered into him. 
Then said Jesus unto him, "That thou doest do quickly." 28 
Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spoke this unto 
him. 29 For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, 
that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need 
of for the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor. 
30 He then having received the sop went immediately out: and 
it was night. 



§2. THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 

THE FORECAST OF THE ASCENSION AND SECOND COMING 

a. The Glory of the Son of Man 

31 Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, "Now is the 
Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him. 32 If God 
be glorified in him, God shall also glorify him in himself, and 
shall straightway glorify him. 33 Little children, yet a little 
while I am with you. You shall seek me : and as I said unto the 

x Ps. 41:9. 

Chapter 13:17-33 



13:34 The Gospel According to John 247 

Jews, 'Whither I go you cannot come; 1 so now I say to you. 34 A 
new commandment I give unto you, That you love one another; 
as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this 
shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love one 
to another." 



b. The Forecast of Peter's Denial 

36 Simon Peter said unto him, "Lord, whither goest thou?" 
Jesus answered him, "Whither I go, thou canst not follow me 
now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards." 37 Peter said unto 
him, "Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my 
life for thy sake." 38 Jesus answered him, "Wilt thou lay down 
thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock 
shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice." 



c. The Forecast of Jesus' Departure 

14:1 "Let not your heart be troubled: you believe in God, 
believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many mansions : 
if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place 
for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come 
again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there you 
may be also. 4 And whither I go you know, and the way you 
know." 5 Thomas saith unto him, "Lord, we know not whither 
thou goest; and how can we know the way? 6 Jesus saith unto 
him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto 
the Father, but by me. 7 If you had known me, you should 
have known my Father also : and from henceforth you know him, 
and have seen him." 8 Philip saith unto him, "Lord, show us 
the Father, and it sufnceth us." 9 Jesus saith unto him, "Have 
I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, 
Philip ? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father ; and how sayest 
thou then, 'Show us the Father'? 10 Belie vest thou not that I 
am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak 
unto you, I speak not of myself ; but the Father that dwelleth in 
me, he doeth the works. 11 Believe me that I am in the Father, 
and the Father in me; or else believe me for the very works' sake. 
12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the 
works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these 
shall he do; because I go unto my Father. 13 And whatsoever 
you shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may 
be glorified in the Son. 14 If you shall ask any thing in my 
name, I will do it. 



1 John 7:34. 

Chapter 13:34-14:14 



248 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

d. The Promise of the Holy Spirit 

15 "If you love me, keep my commandments. 16 And I will 
pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that 
he may abide with you for ever; 17 even the Spirit of truth; 
whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither 
knoweth him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. 18 
I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. 19 Yet a 
little while, and the world seeth me no more; but you see me; 
because I live, you shall live also. 20 At that day you shall 
know that I am in the Father, and ye in me, and I in you. 21 
He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is 
that loveth me : and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, 
and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him." 22 Judas 
saith unto him, not Iscariot, "Lord, how is it that thou wilt 
manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?" 23 Jesus 
answered and said unto him, "If a man love me, he will keep my 
words : and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, 
and make our abode with him. 24 He that loveth me not keepeth 
not my sayings : and the word which you hear is not mine, but the 
Father's who sent me." 



e. The Ministry of the Holy Spirit 

25 "These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present 
with you. 26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit, 
whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all 
things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever 
I have said unto you. 27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I 
give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let 
not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. 28 You 
have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto 
you. If you loved me, you would rejoice, because I said, 'I 
go unto the Father:' for my Father is greater than I. 29 And 
now I have told you before it come to pass, that when it is come 
to pass, you might believe. 30 Hereafter I will not talk much 
with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing 
in me. 31 But that the world may know that I love the Father; 
and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, 
let us go hence." 

§3. THE PARABLE OF THE VINE 

THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY SPIRIT 

a. The Vine and the Branches 

15: 1 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the 
husbandman. 2 Every branch in me that beareth 

Chapter 14:15-15:2 



15:3 The Gospel According to John 249 

not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that 
beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth 
more fruit. 3 Now you are clean through the word 
that I have spoken unto you. 4 Abide in me, and 
I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, 
except it abide in the vine, no more can you, except 
you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the 
branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, 
the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without 
me, you can do nothing. 6 If a man abide not in 
me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; 
and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, 
and they are burned. 7 If you abide in me, and 
my words abide in you, you shall ask what you 
will, and it shall be done unto you. 8 Herein is my 
Father glorified, that you bear much fruit; so shall 
you be my disciples. 



b. The Commandment of Brotherly Love 

9 "As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved 
you : continue ye in my love. 10 If you keep my 
commandments, you shall abide in my love, even 
as I have kept my Father's commandments, and 
abide in his love. 11 These things have I spoken 
unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and 
that your joy might be full. 12 This is my command- 
ment, That you love one another, as I have loved 
you. 13 Greater love hath no man than this, that 
a man lay down his life for his friends. 14 You 
are my friends, if you do whatsoever I command 
you. 15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for 
the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but 
I have called you friends; for all things that I have 
heard from my Father I have made known unto 
you. 16 You have not chosen me, but I have 
chosen you, and ordained you, that you should 
go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should 
remain: that whatsoever you shall ask of the 
Father in my name, he may give it you. 17 These 
things I command you, that you love one another." 



c. The Hatred of the World 

18 "If the world hate you, you know that it 
hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were of 

Chapter 15:3-19 



250 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

the world, the world would love his own: but 
because you are not of the world, but I have 
chosen you out of the world, therefore the world 
hateth you. 20 Remember the word that I said 
unto you, 'The servant is not greater than his 
lord.' If they have persecuted me, they will also 
persecute you; if they have kept my sayings they 
will keep yours also. 21 But all these things will 
they do unto you for my name's sake, because 
they know not him that sent me. 22 If I had not 
come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: 
but now they have no cloke for their sin. 23 He 
that hateth me hateth my Father also. 24 If I 
had not done among them the works that no other 
man did, they had not had sin: but now have they 
. both seen and hated both me and my Father. 
25 But this cometh to pass, that the word might 
be fulfilled that is written in their law, 'They 
hated me without a cause.' 1 26 But when the 
Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from 
the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which pro- 
ceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me. 
27 And you also shall bear witness, because you 
have been with me from the beginning. 16 : 1 These 
things have I spoken unto you that you should not 
be offended. 2 They shall put you out of the syna- 
gogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth 
you will think that he doeth God service. 3 And 
these things will they do, because they have not 
known the Father, nor me. 4 But these things 
have I told you, that when the time shall come, 
you may remember that I told you of them. And 
these things I said not unto you at the beginning, 
because I was with you." 



d. The Ministry of the Holy Spirit 

5 "But now I go my way to him that sent me; 
and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou? 
6 But because I have said these things unto you, 
sorrow hath filled your heart. 7 Nevertheless I tell 
you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go 
away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will 
not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send 



x Ps. 35:19. 

Chapter 15:20-16:7 



16:8 The Gospel According to John 251 

him unto you. 8 And when he is come, he will 
reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and 
of judgment; 9 of sin, because they believe not 
on me; 10 of righteousness, because I go to my 
Father, and you see me no more; 11 of judgment, 
because the prince of this world is judged. 12 I 
have yet many things to say unto you, but you 
cannot bear them now. 13 Howbeit, when he the 
Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all 
truth : for he shall not speak of himself ; but what- 
soever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he 
shall show you things to come. 14 For he shall 
glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall 
show it unto you. 15 All things that the Father 
hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take 
of mine, and show it unto you. 16 A little while, 
and you shall not see me : and again, a little while, 
and you shall see me, because I go to my Father." 



H. THE REPLY OF JESUS TO THE DISCIPLES 
a. The Questioning among the Apostles 

17 Then said some of his disciples among themselves, "What 
is this that he saith unto us, 'A little while, and you shall not 
see me: and again, a little while, and you shall see me:' and, 
'Because I go to the Father'? " 18 They said therefore, "What 
is this that he saith, 'A little while' ? we cannot tell what he saith." 



b. The Assurance of the Second Coming 

19 Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and 
said unto them, "Do you inquire among yourselves of that I 
said, 'A little while, and you shall not see me: and again, a little 
while, and you shall see me' ? 20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, 
that you shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: 
and you shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into 
joy. 21 A woman when she is in a travail hath sorrow, because 
her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, 
she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is 
born into the world. 22 And you now therefore have sorrow: 
but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your 
joy no man taketh from you. 23 And in that day you shall 
ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever 
you shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. 24 
Hitherto have you asked nothing in my name : ask, and you shall 
receive, that your joy may be full." 

Chapter 16:8-24 



252 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

c. The Victory Over the World 

25 "These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but 
the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in prov- 
erbs, but I shall show you plainly of the Father. 26 At that 
day you shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that 
I will pray the Father for you: 27 for the Father himself loveth 
you, because you have loved me, and have believed that I came 
out from God. 28 I came forth from the Father, and am come 
into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father." 
29 His disciples said unto him, "Lo, now speakest thou plainly, 
and speakest no proverb. 30 Now we are sure that thou knowest 
all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee: by this 
we believe that thou earnest forth from God." 31 Jesus answered 
them, "Do you now believe? 32 Behold, the hour cometh, 
yea, is now come, that you shall be scattered, every man to his 
own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because 
the Father is with me. 33 These things have I spoken unto 
you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall 
have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the 
world." 



§4. THE PRAYER OF INTERCESSION 

THE MASTER, THE APOSTLES, AND THE CHURCH 

a. The Prayer of Jesus for Himself 

17:1 These words spoke Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, 

and said: 

* * * 

"Father, the hour is come: glorify thy Son, that 
thy Son also my glorify thee: 2 as thou hast 
given him power over all flesh, that he should 
give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. 
3 And this is life eternal, that they might know 
thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou 
hast sent. 4 I have glorified thee on the earth: 
I have finished the work that thou gavest me to do. 
5 And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine 
own self with the glory which I had with thee before 
the world was." 



b. The Prayer for the Disciples 

6 "I have manifested thy name unto the men 
whom thou gavest me out of the world: thine they 
were, and thou gavest them me ; and they have kept 

Chapter 16:25-17:6 



17:7 The Gospel According to John 253 

thy word. 7 Now they have known that all things 
whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee. 8 For 
I have given unto them the words that thou gavest 
me; and they have received them, and have known 
surely that I came out from thee, and they have 
believed that thou didst send me. 9 I pray for 
them: I pray not for the world, but for them that 
thou hast given me; for they are thine. 10 And 
all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am 
glorified in them. 11 And now I am no more in 
the world, but these are in the world, and I come to 
thee. Holy Father, keep throughout thine own 
name those whom thou hast given me, that they 
may be one, as we are. 12 While I was with them in 
the world, I kept them in thy name : those that thou 
gavest me I have kept and none of them is lost, but 
the son of perdition; that the scripture might be 
fulfilled. 13 And now I come to thee; and these 
things I speak in the world, that they might have 
m Y j°y fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given 
them thy word; and the world hath hated them, 
because they are not of the world, even as I am not 
of the world. 15 I pray not that thou shouldest 
take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest 
keep them from the evil. 16 They are not of the 
world, even as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify 
them through thy truth : thy word is truth. 18 As 
thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I 
also sent them into the world. 19 And for their 
sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be 
sanctified through the truth." 



c. The Prayer for the Church 

20 " Neither pray I for these alone, but for them 
also that shall believe on me through their word; 

21 that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in 
me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: 
that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. 

22 And the glory that thou gavest me I have given 
them; that they may be one, even as we are one: 

23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be 
made perfect in one; and that the world may know 
that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as 
thou hast loved me. 24 Father, I will that they 
also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where 

Chapter 17:7-24 



254 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou 
hast given me : for thou lovedst me before the foun- 
dation of the world. 25 righteous Father, the 
world hath not known thee : but I have known thee, 
and these have known that thou hast sent me. 26 
And I have declared unto them thy name, and will 
declare it : that the love wherewith thou hast loved 
me may be in them, and I in them." 



§5. THE BETRAYAL AND CONDEMNATION 
THE OFFENCE OF DISCIPLESHIP 
a. The Arrest of Jesus in the Garden 

18 : 1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with 
his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into 
which he entered, and his disciples. 2 And Judas also, who 
betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither 
with his disciples. 3 Judas then having received a band of 
men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees cometh 
thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. 4 Jesus there- 
fore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, 
and said unto them, "Whom seek ye?" 5 They answered him, 
"Jesus of Nazareth." Jesus saith unto them, "I am he." And 
Judas also, who betrayed him, stood with them. 6 As soon 
as he had said unto them, "I am he" they went backward, and 
fell to the ground. 7 Then asked he them again, "Whom seek 
ye?" And they said, "Jesus of Nazareth." 8 Jesus answered, 
"I have told you that I am he: if therefore you seek me, let these 
go their way:" 9 that the saying might be fulfilled which he 
spoke, "Of them that thou gavest me have I lost none." 10 
Simon Peter then having a sword drew it, and smote the high 
priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name 
was Malchus. 11 Then said Jesus unto Peter, "Put up thy 
sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, 
shall I not drink it?" 

b. The Delivery of Jesus to the High Priest 

12 Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews 
took Jesus and bound him, 13 and led him away to Annas 
first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, who was high priest 
that same year. 14 Now Caiaphas was he who gave counsel to 
the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the 
people. 

Chapter 17:25-18:14 



18: 15 The Gospel According to John 255 

c. The First Denial of Peter 

15 And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another dis- 
ciple: that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went 
in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest. 16 But Peter 
stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, 
who was known unto the high priest, and spoke unto her that 
kept the door, and brought in Peter. 17 Then said the damsel 
that kept the door unto Peter, ''Art thou not also one of this 
man's disciples?" He saith, "I am not." 18 And the servants 
and the officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals; for it 
was cold: and they warmed themselves: and Peter stood with 
them, and warmed himself. 



II. THE TRIAL BEFORE THE HIGH PRIEST 
a. The Examination of Jesus 

19 The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of 
his doctrine. 20 Jesus answered him, "I spoke openly to the 
world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither 
the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing. 21 
Why askest thou me? ask them that heard me, what I have said 
unto them: behold, they know what I said." 22 And when he 
had thus spoken, one of the officers who stood by struck Jesus 
with the palm of his hand, saying, "Answerest thou the high 
priest so?" 23 Jesus answered him, "If I have spoken evil, 
bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?" 24 
Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high priest 



b. The Second and Third Denials of Peter 

25 And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said 
therefore unto him, "Art not thou also one of his disciples?" 
He denied it, and said, "I am not." 26 One of the servants 
of the high priest, being his kinsman whose ear Peter cut off 
saith, "Did not I see thee in the garden with him?" 27 Peter 
then denied again: and immediately the cock crew. 



III. THE TRIAL BEFORE PILATE THE GOVERNOR 

a. The Complaint of the Jews Against Jesus 

28 Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judg- 
ment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the 
judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might 
eat the passover. 29 Pilate then went out unto them, and said, 

Chapter 18:15-29 



256 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

"What accusation bring you against this man?" 30 They 
answered and said unto him, "If he were not a malefactor, we 
would not have delivered him up unto thee." 31 Then said 
Pilate unto them, "Take ye him, and judge him according to 
your law." The Jews therefore said unto him, "It is not lawful 
for us to put any man to death:" 32 that the saying of Jesus 
might be fulfilled, which he spoke, signifying by what death he 
should die. 



b. The Examination of Jesus by Pilate 

33 Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and 
called Jesus, and said unto him, "Art thou the King of the Jews?" 
34 Jesus answered him, "Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or 
did others tell it thee of me?" 35 Pilate answered, "Am I a Jew? 
Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto 
me: what hast thou done?" 36 Jesus answered, "My kingdom 
is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would 
my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: 
but now is my kingdom not from hence." 37 Pilate therefore 
saith unto him, "Art thou a king then?" Jesus answered, "Thou 
sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this 
cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the 
truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice." 38 
Pilate saith unto him, "What is truth?" 



c. The Passover Amnesty for the Jews 

And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews 
and saith unto them, "I find in him no fault at all. 39 But 
you have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the 
passover: will you therefore that I release unto you the King of 
the Jews?" 40 Then cried they all again, saying, "Not this 
man, but Barabbas." Now Barabbas was a robber. 



d. The Further Examination and Condemnation of Jesus 

19:1 Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. 2 
And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his 
head, and they put on him a purple robe, 3 and said, "Hail, 
King of the Jews!" and they smote him with their hands. 4 
Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, "Behold, 
I bring him forth to you, that you may know that I find no fault 
in him." 5 Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, 
and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, "Behold the 
man!" 6 When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, 

Chapter 18:30-19:6 



19:7 The Gospel According to John 257 

they cried out, saying, "Crucify him, crucify him." Pilate saith 
unto them, "Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in 
him." 7 The Jews answered him, "We have a law, and by our 
law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God." 
8 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more 
afraid; 9 and went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto 
Jesus, "Whence art thou?" But Jesus gave him no answer. 10 
Then saith Pilate unto him, "Speakest thou not unto me? knowest 
thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to 
release thee?" 11 Jesus answered, "Thou couldest have no 
power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: 
therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. " 12 
And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews 
cried out, saying, "If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's 
friend : whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar." 
13 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus 
forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called 
the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha. 14 And it was 
the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour : and he 
saith unto the Jews, "Behold your King!" 15 But they cried out, 
'Away with him, away with him, crucify him." Pilate saith 
unto them, "Shall I crucify your king?" The chief priests an- 
swered, "We have no king but Caesar." 16 Then delivered he 
him therefore unto them to be crucified. 



§6. THE CRUCIFIXION OF JESUS 

THE DEATH AND BURIAL NEAR JERUSALEM 

a. The Circumstances of the Crucifixion 

And they took Jesus, and led him away. 17 And he bearing 
his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which 
is called in the Hebrew, Golgotha: 18 where they crucified 
him, and two others with him, on either side one, and Jesus in 
the midst. 

19 And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And 

the writing was : 

* * * 

"JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS." 

* 

20 This title then read many of the Jews: for the place where 
Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city: and it was written in 
Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin. 21 Then said the chief priests 
of the Jews to Pilate, "Write not, 'The King of the Jews;' but 

Chapter 19:7-21 



258 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

that he said, 'I am King of the Jews.' " 22 Pilate answered, 
"What I have written I have written." 

* 

23 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took 
his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and 
also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the 
top throughout. 24 They said there among themselves, "Let 
us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be:" that the 
scripture might be fulfilled, which saith: 

* * * 

"They parted my raiment among them, 
And for my vesture they did cast lots." 1 
* 
These things therefore the soldiers did. 



* 



25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and 
his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleopas, and Mary Mag- 
dalene. 26 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the 
disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, 
"Woman, behold thy son!" 27 Then saith he to the disciple, 
"Behold thy mother!" And from that hour that disciple took 
her to his own home. 

28 After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accom- 
plished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, "I thirst." 2 
29 Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a 
sponge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his 
mouth. 30 When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he 
said, "It is finished:" and he bowed his head, and gave up the 
ghost. 



b. The Removal of the Bodies 

31 The Jews therefore, because it was the Preparation, that 
the bodies should not remain on the cross on the sabbath day 
[for that sabbath day was a high day], besought Pilate that 
their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. 
32 Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and 
of the other that was crucified with him. 33 But when they 
came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake 
not his legs: 34 but one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his 
side, and forthwith came there out blood and water. 35 And 
he that saw it bear record, and his record is true: and he knoweth 

l Ps. 69:21. «Ps. 22:18. 

Chapter 19:22-35 



19:36 The Gospel According to John 259 

that he saith true, that ye might believe. 36 For these things 
were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, "A bone of him 
shall not be broken." 1 37 And again another scripture saith, 
"They shall look on him whom they pierced." 2 



c. The Burial of Jesus Near the City 

38 And after this Joseph of Arimathsea, being a disciple of 
Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that 
he might take away the body of Jesus : and Pilate gave him leave. 
He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus. 39 And there 
came also Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, and 
brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pound 
weight. 40 Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in 
linen cloths with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury. 
41 Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; 
and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet 
laid. 42 There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' 
Preparation day: for the sepulchre was near at hand. 



§7. THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS 

I. THE RESURRECTION AND APPEARANCE OF JESUS 

a. The Discovery of the Empty Tomb 

20 : 1 The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early 
when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone 
taken away from the sepulchre. 2 Then she runneth, and 
cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus 
loved, and saith unto them, "They have taken away the Lord out 
of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him." 3 
Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came 
to the sepulchre. 4 So they ran both together: and the other 
disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre. 5 And 
stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen cloths lying; yet 
went he not in. 6 Then cometh Simon Peter following him, 
and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen cloths lie, 7 
and the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen 
cloths, but wrapped together in a place by itself. 8 Then went 
in also that other disciple, who came first to the sepulchre, and 
he saw, and believed. 9 For as yet they knew not the scripture, 
that he must rise again from the dead. 10 Then the disciples 
went away again unto their own home. 

*Ps. 34:20. 2 Zech. 12:10. 

Chapter 19:36-20:10 



260 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

b. The Appearance to Mary Magdalene 

11 But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as 
she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre, 12 
and seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and 
the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had laid. 13 And 
they say unto her, "Woman, why weepest thou?" She saith 
unto them, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know 
not where they have laid him. 14 And when she had thus said, 
she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not 
that it was Jesus. 15 Jesus saith unto her, "Woman, why 
weepest thou? whom seekest thou?" She, supposing him to 
be the gardener, saith unto him, "Sir, if thou have borne him 
hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him 
away." 16 Jesus saith unto her, "Mary." She turned herself, 
and saith unto him, "Rabbonil" [which is to sa}r, Master]. 17 
Jesus saith unto her, "Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended 
to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, 'I 
ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and 
your God.' " 18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples 
that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things 
unto her. 



n. THE COMMISSION FOR THE APOSTLES 
a. The Proof of the Resurrection 

19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the 
week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled 
for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and 
saith unto them, "Peace be unto you." 20 And when he had 
so said, he showed unto them his hands and his side. Then were 
the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. 21 Then said 
Jesus to them again, "Peace be unto you: as my Father hath 
sent me, even so send I you." 22 And when he had said this, he 
breathed on them, and saith unto them, "Receive ye the Holy 
Spirit : 23 Whose soever sins you remit, they are remitted unto 
them; and whose soever sins you retain, they are retained." 



b. The Disbelief of Thomas 

24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not 
with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore 
said unto him, "We have seen the Lord." But he saith unto 
them, "Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails and 
put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hands 
into his side, I will not believe." 

Chapter 20:11-25 



20:26 The Gospel According to John 261 

c. The Proof of the Resurrection to Thomas 

26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and 
Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and 
stood in the midst, and said, "Peace be unto you." 27 Then 
saith he to Thomas, "Reach hither thy finger, and behold my 
hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: 
and be not faithless, but believing." 28 And Thomas answered 
and said unto him, "My Lord and my God." 29 Jesus saith 
unto him, "Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast be- 
lieved: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." 



5Tht SThtri* Summary 

30 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of 
his disciples, that are not written in this book: 31 but these 
are written, that you might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the 
Son of God; and that believing you might have life through his 
name. 



ffipHop* 



THE CONCLUSION OF THE GOSPEL 

I. THE GREAT DRAUGHT OF FISHES 
The Appearance of Jesus at the Sea of Tiberias 

After these things Jesus showed himself again to the disciples 
at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise showed he himself. 2 
There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, 
and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and 
two other of his disciples. 3 Simon Peter saith unto them, "I 
go a fishing." They say unto him, "We also go with thee." 
They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that 
night they caught nothing. 4 But when the morning was now 
come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that 
it was Jesus. 5 Then Jesus saith unto them, "Children, have 
you any meat?" They answered him, "No." 6 And he said 
unto them, "Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and you 
shall find." They cast therefore, and now they were not able to 
draw it for the multitude of fishes. 7 Therefore that disciple 
whom Jesus loved, saith unto Peter, "It is the Lord." Now 
when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's 
coat unto him [for he was naked], and did cast himself into the 
sea. 8 And the other disciples came in a little ship [for they 
were not far from land, but, as it were, two hundred cubits], 
dragging the net with fishes. 9 As soon then as they were come 
to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and 
bread. 10 Jesus saith unto them, "Bring the fish which you 
have now caught." 11 Simon Peter went up and drew the net 
to land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and t ree: 
and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken. 12 
Jesus saith unto them, "Come and dine." And none of the dis- 
ciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the 
Lord. 13 Jesus then cometh and taketh bread, and giveth them, 
and fish likewise. 14 This is now the third time that Jesus 
showed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the 
dead. 

H. THE COMMISSION TO SIMON PETER 
The Love of Peter for Jesus 

15 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, "Si- 
mon, son of John, lovest thou me more than these?" He saith 

263 Chapter 21:1-15 



264 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

unto him, "Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee." He 
saith unto him, "Feed my lambs." 16 He saith to him again 
the second time, "Simon, son of John, lovest thou me?" He saith 
unto him, "Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee." He 
saith unto him, "Feed my sheep." 17 He saith unto him the 
third time, "Simon, son of John, lovest thou me?" Peter was 
grieved because he said unto him the third time, "Lovest thou 
me?" And he said unto him, "Lord, thou knowest all things; 
thou knowest that I love thee." Jesus saith unto him, "Feed 
my sheep." 18 "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast 
young, thou girdest thyself, and walkest whither thou wouldest: 
but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, 
and another shall gird thee and carry thee whither thou wouldest 
not." 19 This spoke he, signifying by what death he should 
glorify God. And when he had thus spoken, he saith unto him, 
"Follow me." 20 Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple 
whom Jesus loved following; who also leaned on his breast at 
supper, and said, "Lord, who is he that betrayeth thee?" 21 
Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, "Lord, and what shall this man 
do?" 22 Jesus saith unto him, "If I will that he tarry till I 
come, what is that to thee? follow thou me." 23 Then went this 
saying abroad among the brethren that this disciple should not 
die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, "If I will 
that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?" 24 This is the 
disciple that testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: 
and we know that his testimony is true. 

* 

25 And there are also many other things which Jesus did, 

the which if they should be written every one, I suppose that 

even the world itself could not contain the books that should 

be written. Amen. 

* * * 

* * 

* 



The Acts of the Apostles 



Part <&nt 
The Coming of the Holy Spirit 



§1. THE INTRODUCTION 

I. THE LIFE AND WORK OF JESUS 

The Promise of the Coming of the Holy Spirit 

The former treatise 1 have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus 
began both to do and teach, 2 until the day in which he was 
taken up, after that he through the Holy Spirit had given com- 
mandment unto the apostles whom he had chosen: 3 to whom 
also he showed himself alive after his passion by many inf allible 
proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of things 
pertaining to the kingdom of God: 4 and being assembled to- 
gether with them, commanded them that they should not depart 
from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, "which, " 
said he, "you have heard of me. 5 For John truly baptized with 
water; but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many 
days hence." 



H. THE GREAT COMMISSION TO THE APOSTLES 
The Ascension of Jesus Into Heaven 

6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, 
saying, "Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom 
to Israel?" 7 And he said unto them, " It is not for you to know 
the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own 
power. 8 But you shall receive power, after that the Holy Spirit 
is come upon you: and you shall be witnesses unto me both in 
Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the utter- 
most part of the earth." 9 And when he had spoken these 
things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received 
him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked stedfastly 
toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them 
in white apparel; 11 who also said, "Ye men of Galilee, why 
stand you gazing into heaven? This same Jesus, who is taken up 
from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as you have 
seen him go into heaven." 

1 The Gospel According to Luke. The preface to Luke's gospel is designed 
to cover the Acts also, the gospel and history being two parts of one work. 

267 Chapter 1:1-11 



268 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

HI. THE WAITING APOSTLES IN JERUSALEM 
The Church in the Upper Room 

12 Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called 
Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey. 13 
And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, 
where abode both Peter and James and John and Andrew, 
Phillip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son 
of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. 
14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, 
with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his 
brothers. 1 



§2. THE ORGANIZATION OF APOSTLES 

THE CHOICE OF MATTHIAS AS ONE OF THE TWELVE 

The Prophetic Fate of Judas Iscariot 

15 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the dis- 
ciples, and said [The number of ,names together was about a 
hundred and twenty]: 16 "Men and brethren, this scripture 
must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit by the mouth 
of David spoke before concerning Judas, who was the guide to 
them that took Jesus. 17 For he was numbered with us, and had 
obtained part of this ministry. 18 [Now this man purchased a 
field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst 
asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. 19 And it 
was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem, insomuch as that 
field is called in their proper tongue, "Aceldama," that is to say, 
The field of blood.] 20 For it is written in the book of Psalms : 

* * * 

1 Let his habitation be desolate, 
And let no man dwell therein: 2 
And his bishoprick let another take.' 3 
* 

21 Wherefore of these two who have companied with us all the 
time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 begin- 
ning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was 
taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of 
his resurrection." 23 And they appointed two, Joseph called 
Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they 
prayed, and said, "Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all 
men, show which of these two thou hast chosen, 25 that he may 
take part of this ministry and apostleship from which Judas by 



1 James, Joseph, Simeon and Judas. Matt. 13:55. 

2 Ps. 69:25. 3 Ps. 109:8. 



Chapter 1:12-25 



1:26 The Acts of the Apostles 269 

transgression fell, that he might go to his own place." 26 And 
they gave forth their lots ; and the lot fell upon Matthias, and he 
was numbered with the eleven apostles. 



§3. THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 

I. THE FULFILMENT OF THE FATHER'S PROMISE 

The Tongues as of Fire Upon the Disciples 

2 : 1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were 
all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a 
sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all 
the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto 
them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 
4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak 
with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 



H. THE IMPRESSION UPON THE CITY 
The Witness of the Nations 

5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, 
out of every nation under heaven. 6 And when this was noised 
abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, be- 
cause that every man heard them speak in his own language. 7 
And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, 
"Behold, are not all these that speak Galilaeans? 8 And how hear 
we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born ? 9 Parthi- 
ans and Medes and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, 
and in Judaea and Cappadocia, in Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia 
and Pamphylia, in Egypt and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, 
and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretans and 
Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful 
works of God." 12 And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, 
saying one to another, "What meaneth this?" 13 Others mock- 
ing said, "These men are full of new wine." 



HI. THE ADDRESS OF THE APOSTLE PETER 
The Exposition of the Pentecost 

14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, 
and said unto them: 

"Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at 
Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken 
to my words: 15 For these are not drunken, 

Chapter 1:26-2:15 



270 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

as you suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of 
the day. 16 But this is that which was spoken by 
the prophet Joel: 

17 ' And it shall come to pass in the last 

days, saith God, 
I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh; 
And your sons and your daughters 

shall prophesy, 
And your young men shall see visions, 
And your old men shall dream dreams ; 

18 And on my servants and on my hand-maidens 
I will pour out in those days of my Spirit ; 
And they shall prophesy; 

19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, 
And signs in the earth beneath; 

Blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke; 

20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, 
And the moon into blood, 

Before that great and notable day of the 
Lord come ; 

21 And it shall come to pass, 

That whosoever shall call on the name 

of the Lord, 

Shall be saved.' 1 

* 

22 "Ye men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus 

of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by 

miracles and wonders and signs, which God did 

by him in the midst of you, as you yourselves also 

know: 23 him, being delivered by the determinate 

counsel and foreknowledge of God, you have taken, 

and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: 24 

whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of 

death; because it was not possible that he should be 

holden of it. 25 For David speaketh concerning 

him: 

* * * 

'I foresaw the Lord always before my face, 
For he is on my right hand, 
That I should not be moved: 
26 Therefore did my heart rejoice, 
And my tongue was glad; 
Moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: 



1 Jod2:28f. 

Chapter 2:16-26 



2:27 The Acts of the Apostles 271 

27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, 
Neither wilt thou suffer thy Holy One to 

see corruption. 

28 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; 
Thou shalt make me full of joy with 

thy countenance.' 1 
* 

29 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto 
you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead 
and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this 
day. 30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing 
that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the 
fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would 
raise up Christ to sit on his throne; 31 he seeing 
this before spoke of the resurrection of Christ, that 
his soul was not left in hell, neither did his flesh see 
corruption. 32 This Jesus hath God raise up, 
whereof we all are witnesses. 

* 

33 "Therefore being by the right hand of God 
exalted, and having received of the Father the 
promise of the Holy Spirit, he hath shed forth 
this, which you now see and hear. 34 For David 
has not ascended into heaven; but he saith himself: 
* * * 

1 The Lord said unto my Lord, 
Sit thou on my right hand, 

35 Until I make thy foes thy footstool.' 2 

* 

36 "Therefore let all the house of Israel know 
assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, 
whom you have crucified, both Lord and Christ." 



IV. THE GREAT AWAKENING IN JERUSALEM 
The Increase of Three Thousand Disciples 

37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, 
and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, "Men and 
brethren, what shall we do?" 38 Then Peter said unto them, 
11 Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus 
Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of 
the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your 

*Ps. 16:8f. 2 Ps. 110:1. 

Chapter 2:27-39 



272 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord 
our God shall call." 40 And with many other words did he 
testify and exhort, saying, "Save yourselves from this untoward 
generation." 40 Then they that gladly received the word were 
baptized; and the same day there were added unto them about 
three thousand souls. 



§4. THE NEW LIFE OF THE DISCIPLES 

THE CHURCH AFTER PENTECOST 

The Seven-Fold Forecast 

42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine 
and fellowship, 

* 
And in the breaking of bread, 

* 

And in the prayers. 

43 And fear came upon every soul : 

* 
And many signs and wonders were done by the apostles. 

* 

44 And all that believed were together, and had all things 
common; 45 and sold their possessions and goods, and parted 
them to all men, as every man had need. 

* 

46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, 
and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with 
gladness and singleness of heart, 47 praising God, and having 
favour with all the people. 



She 3ffrst Summaru 

And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be 
saved. 



Part $to* 
The Ministry in Jerusalem 



§1. THE APOSTLES PETER AND JOHN AT THE TEMPLE 
I. THE LAME MAN AT THE BEAUTIFUL GATE 

The First Miracle of the Apostles 

Now Peter and John went up to the temple at the hour 
of prayer, being the ninth hour. 2 And a certain man lame 
from his birth was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate 
of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them 
that entered into the temple: 3 who seeing Peter and John 
about to go into the temple asked an alms. 4 And Peter, fas- 
tening his eyes upon him with John, said, "Look on us." 5 And 
he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something from 
them. 6 And Peter said, "Silver and gold have I none: but 
such as I have give I thee : In the name of Jesus Christ of Naza- 
reth rise up and walk." 7 And he took him by the right hand, 
and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones 
received strength. 8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and 
entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and 
praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and prais- 
ing God: 10 and they knew that it was he that sat for alms at 
the Beautiful gate of the temple : and they were filled with wonder 
and amazement at that which had happened unto him. 



H. THE ADDRESS OF PETER TO THE PEOPLE 
The Great Power of Jesus' Name 

11 And as the lame man that was healed held Peter and John, 

all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called 

Solomon's, greatly wondering. 12 And when Peter saw it, he 

answered unto the people : 

* 

"Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or 
why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our 
own power or holiness we had made this man to 
walk? * * 

13 "The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of 
Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his 

273 Chapter 3:1-13 



274 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

Son Jesus; whom you delivered up, and denied 
him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined 
to let him go. 14 But you denied the Holy One 
and Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto 
you; 15 and killed the Prince of Life, whom God 
hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. 
* * * 

16 "And his name through faith in his name 
hath made this man strong, whom you see and 
know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given 
him this perfect soundness in the presence of you 
all. 

17 "And, now, brethren, I know that through 
ignorance you did it, as did also your rulers. 18 
But those things, which God before had showed 
by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should 
suffer, he hath so fulfilled. 

19 "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that 
your sins may be blotted out, when the times of 
refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord ; 
20 and he shall send Jesus Christ, who before was 
preached unto you: 21 whom the heaven must re- 
ceive until the times of restitution of all things, 
which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy 
prophets since the world began. 

22 "For Moses truly said unto the fathers, 'A 
prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto 
you of your brethren like unto me; him shall ye 
hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto 
you. 23 And it shall come to pass, that every 
soul that will not hear that prophet, shall be de- 
stroyed from among the people.' 1 24 Yea, and 
all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow 
after, as many as have spoken, have likewise fore- 
told of these days. 

#** * *** 

25 "You are the children of the prophets, and 
of the covenant which God made with our fathers, 
saying unto Abraham, 'And in thy seed shall all 
the kindreds of the earth be blessed.' 1 26 Unto 



i Gen. 12:3. 

Chapter 3:14-26 



4:1 The Acts of the Apostles 275 

you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent 
him to bless you, in turning away every one of 
you from his iniquities." 



m. THE APOSTLES BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN 
a. The Arrest of Peter and John 

4:1 And as they spoke unto the people, the priests, and the 
captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, 2 
being grieved because they taught the people, and preached 
through Jesus the resurrection from the dead. 3 And they 
laid hands on them, and put them in hold until the next day, for it 
was now eventide. 5 Howbeit many of them that heard the word 
believed, and the number of the men was about five thousand. 



b. The Defense of the Apostle Peter 

5 And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and 
elders, and scribes, 6 and Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, 
and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred 
of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. 7 And 
when they had set them in the midst they asked, ''By what 
power, or by what name, have you done this?" 8 Then Peter, 
filled with the Holy Spirit, said unto them: "Ye rulers of the 
people, and elders of Israel, 9 if we this day are examined for 
the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is 
made whole, 10 be it known unto you all, and to all the people 
of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom 
you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth 
this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which 
was set at naught by you builders, which is become the head of 
the corner. 12 Neither is there salvation in any other; for there 
is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we 
must be saved." 



c. The Acquittal of Peter and John 

13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and 
perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they 
marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been 
with Jesus. 14 And beholding the man who was healed standing 
with them, they could say nothing against it. 15 But when 
they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they 
conferred among themselves, 16 saying, "What shall we do to 
these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by 

Chapter 4:1-16 



276 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem ; and we can- 
not deny it. 17 But that it spread no further among the people, 
let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no 
man in this name." 18 And they called them, and commanded 
them not to speak at all nor to teach in the name of Jesus. 19 
But Peter and John answered and said unto them, "Whether it 
be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto 
God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things that 
we have seen and heard. " 2 1 So when they had further threatened 
them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish 
them, because of the people ; for all men glorified God for that which 
was done. 22 For the man was about forty years old on whom 
this miracle of healing was showed. 



IV. THE RETURN TO THE DISCIPLES 
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit 

23 And being let go they went to their own company, and 
reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them. 
24 And when they heard it, they lifted up their voice to God with 
one accord, and said, " Lord, thou art God, who hast made heaven, 
and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is: 25 who by the 
mouth of thy servant David hast said: 

* * * 

' Why did the heathen rage, 
And the people imagine vain things? 
26 The kings of the earth stood up, 

And the rulers were gathered together 
Against the Lord, and against his Christ.' x 



27 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast 
anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, and the Gentiles, and 
the people of Israel, were gathered together, 28 for to do what- 
soever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. 
29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings : and grant unto thy 
servants that with all boldness they may speak thy word, 30 
by stretching forth thy hand to heal ; and that signs and wonders 
may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus." 31 And when 
they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled 
together; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they 
spoke the word of God with boldness. 



1 Ps. 2:1. 

Chapter 4:17-31 



4:32 The Acts of the Apostles 277 

§2. THE SOCIAL LIFE OF THE CHURCH 

I. THE UNITY OF THE DISCIPLES 

The Community of Property 

32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart 
and of one soul : neither said any of them that ought of the things 
that he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. 

33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resur- 
rection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. 

34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many 
as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the 
prices of the things that were sold, 35 and laid them down at 
the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man 
according as he had need. 



H. THE FAITHFULNESS OF BARNABAS 
The Gift of Land to the Church 

36 And Joseph, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, 
which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation, a Levite, and 
of the country of Cyprus, 37 having land, sold it, and brought 
the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet. 



IH. THE UNFAITHFULNESS OF ANANIAS AND SAPPHIRA 
a. The Exposure and Death of Ananias 

5 : 1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, 
sold a possession, 2 and kept back part of the price, his wife 
also being privy to it } and brought a certain part, and laid it at 
the apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, "Ananias, why hath Satan 
filled thy heart to lie to the Holy Spirit, and to keep back part 
of the price of the land? 4 While it remained, was it not thine 
own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why 
hast thou conceived this thing in thy heart? thou hast not lied 
unto men, but unto God." 5 And Ananias hearing these words 
fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all 
them that heard these things. 6 And the young men arose, 
wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. 



b. The Confession and Death of Sapphira 

7 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his 
wife, not knowing what was done, came in. 8 And Peter said 
unto her, "Tell me whether you sold the land for so much? And 

Chapter 4:32-5:8 



278 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

she said, "Yea, for so much." 9 Then Peter said unto her, 
"How is it that you have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of 
the Lord? behold, the feet of them that have buried thy husband 
are at the door, and shall carry thee out." 10 Then fell she down 
straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young 
men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried 
her by her husband. 1 1 And great fear came upon all the church, 
and upon as many as heard these things. 



§3. THE INFLUENCE OF THE APOSTLES 

I. THE POPULARITY OF THE TWELVE 

The Ministry of Signs and Wonders 

12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and 
wonders wrought among the people [And they were all with one 
accord in Solomon's porch. 13 And of the rest durst no man 
join himself to them; but the people magnified them. 14 And 
believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of 
men and women] ; insomuch that they brought forth the sick into 
the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the 
shadow Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. 16 
There came also a multitude out of the cities roundabout unto 
Jerusalem, bringing sick folk, and them that were vexed with 
unclean spirits : and they were healed every one. 



H. THE ARREST OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES 
The Miraculous Deliverance from Prison 

17 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with 
him, which is the sect of the Sadducees, and were filled with in- 
dignation, 18 and laid their hands on the apostles, and put 
them in the common prison. 19 But the angel of the Lord \yv 
night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and 
said, 20 "Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all 
the words of this life." 21 And when they heard that, they 
entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. 



III. THE TRIAL BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN 
The Obedience Due to God 

But the high priest came, and they that were with him, 
and called the council together, and all the senate of the children 
of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. 22 But 
when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they 

Chapter 5:9-22 



5:23 The Acts of the Apostles 279 

returned, and told, 23 saying, "The prison truly found we shut 
with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors : 
but when we had opened, we found no man within." 24 Now 
when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief 
priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this 
would grow. 25 Then came one and told them, saying, "Be- 
hold, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple, 
and teaching the people. 26 Then went the captain with the 
officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the 
people, lest they should have been stoned. 27 And when they 
had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high 
priests asked them, 28 saying, ' ' Did not we straitly command you 
that you should not teach in this name? 1 and, behold, you have 
filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's 
blood upon us." 29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered 
and said, "We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God 
of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you slew and hanged on a 
tree. 31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince 
and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of 
sins. 32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also 
the Holy Spirit, whom God hath given to them that obey him." 



IV. THE ACQUITTAL OF THE APOSTLES 
The Wise Counsel of Gamaliel 

33 When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took 
counsel to slay them. 34 Then stood there up one in the coun- 
cil, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in repu- 
tation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles 
forth a little space; 35 and said unto them, "Ye men of Israel, 
take heed to yourselves what you intend to do as touching these 
men. 36 For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting him- 
self to be somebody, to whom a number of men, about four 
hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as 
obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to naught. 37 After 
this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and 
drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, 
even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. 3& And now I 
say unto you refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if 
this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to naught: 39 
but if it be of God, you cannot overthrow it; lest haply you be 
found even to fight against God." 40 And to him they agreed: 
and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they com- 
manded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let 

1 Acts4:13f. 

Chapter 5:23-40 



280 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

them go. 41 And they departed from the presence of the council 
rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his 
name. 42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they 
ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ. 



§4. THE CHOICE OF THE SEVEN 

THE PROVISION FOR THE BENEVOLENCE 

The Ordination of the Seven 

6:1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was 
multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grsecians against the 
Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily minis- 
trations. 2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples 
unto them, and said, "It is not reason that we should leave the 
word of God, and serve tables. 3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye 
out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Spirit 
and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. 4 But 
we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry 
of the word." 5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: 
and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy 
Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and 
Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte of Antioch: 6 whom they 
set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid 
their hands on them. 



She Secant* Nummary 

7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the dis- 
ciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great number of 
the priests were obedient to the faith. 



Part $ftm 
The Ministry in Palestine 



§1. THE DISPERSION FROM JERUSALEM 

I. THE ARREST OF STEPHEN 

The Complaint before the Jewish Sanhedrin 

And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders 
and miracles among the people. 9 Then there arose certain of 
the synagogue which is called the synagogue of the libertines, and 
Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, 
disputing with Stephen. 10 And they were not able to resist 
the wisdom and the spirit by which he spoke. 11 Then they 
suborned men, who said, "We have heard him speak blasphemous 
words against Moses, and against God." 12 And they stirred 
up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon 
him, and caught him, and brought him to the council, 13 and 
set up false witnesses, who said, "This man ceaseth not to speak 
blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law: 14 for 
we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy 
this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered 
unto us." 



H. THE TRIAL OF STEPHEN 
The Defence of Stephen before the Sanhedrin 

7 : 1 Then the high priest said, " Are these things so ?" 2 And he 
said: 

Prologue 

"Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken: The 
God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, 
when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in 
Haran, 3 and said unto him, ' Get thee out of thy 
country, and from thy kindred, and come into the 
land which I shall show thee.' 1 4 Then came 
he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt 
in Haran: and from thence when his father was 



l Gen. 12:1. 

281 Chapter 6:8-7:4 



282 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

dead, he removed him into this land wherein you 
now dwell. 5 And he gave him no inheritance in 
it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he 
promised that he would give it to him for a posses- 
sion, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had 
no child. 6 And God spoke on this wise, That his 
seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they 
should bring them into bondage, and entreat them 
evil four hundred years. 7 'And the nation to 
whom they shall be in bondage will I judge,' 1 said 
God: 'and after that they shall come forth, and 
serve me in this place.' 8 And he gave them the 
covenant of circumcision; and so Abraham begat 
Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac 
begat Jacob ; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs. 

* 

9 "And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold 
Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him, 10 
and delivered him out of all his afflictions, and 
gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh, 
king of Egypt; and he made him governor over 
Egypt and all his house. 11 Now there came a 
dearth over the land of Egypt and Canaan, and 
great affliction: and our fathers found no sus- 
tenance. 12 But when Jacob heard that there was 
corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first. 13 
And at the second time Joseph was made known 
to his brothers; and Joseph's kindred was made 
known to Pharaoh. 14 Then sent Joseph, and called 
his father Jacob to him, and all his kindred, three- 
score and fifteen souls. 15 So Jacob went down 
into Egypt, and died, he, and our fathers, 16 and 
were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the 
sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money 
of the sons of Emmor, the father of Sychem. 

* * 

17 "But when the time of the promise drew nigh 
which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew 
and multiplied in Egypt, 18 till another king 
arose, who knew not Joseph. 19 The same dealt 
subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our 
fathers, so that they cast out their young children, 
to the end that they might not live. 20 In which 
time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and 
nourished up in his father's house three months. 21 



iGen. 15:13f. 

Chapter 7:5-21 



7:22 The Acts of the Apostles 283 

And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took 
him up, and nourished him for her own son. 22 And 
Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, 
and was mighty in words and in deeds. 
* * * 

23 "And when he was full forty years old, it came 
into his heart to visit his brethren the children of 
Israel. 24 And seeing one of them suffer wrong, 
he defended him, and avenged him that was op- 
pressed, and smote the Egyptian: 25 for he 
supposed his brethren would have understood how 
that God by his hand would deliver them : but they 
understood not. 26 And the next day he showed 
himself unto them as they strove, and would have 
set them at one again, saying, 'Sirs, you are breth- 
ren: why do ye wrong one to another?' 27 But 
he that did his neighbor wrong thrust him away, 
saying, 'Who made thee a ruler and a judge over 
us? 28 Wilt thou kill me, as thou didest the 
Egyptian yesterday?' 29 Then Moses fled at 
this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Midian, 
where he begat two sons. 

30 "And when forty years were expired, there 
appeared unto him in the wilderness of mount 
Sinai an angel of the Lord in a name of fire in a 
bush. 31 When Moses saw it he wondered at the 
sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of 
the Lord came unto him, 32 saying, 'I am the 
God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the 
God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.' 1 Then Moses 
trembled, and durst not behold. 33 Then said 
the Lord to him, 'Put off thy shoes from thy feet: 
for the place where thou standest is holy ground. 
34 I have seen, I have seen the affliction of my 
people who are in Egypt, and I have heard their 
groaning, and am come to deliver them. And now 
come, I will send thee into Egypt.' 35 This Moses 
whom they refused, saying, ' Who made thee a ruler 
and a judge?' the same did God send to be sl ruler 
and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which 
appeared to him in the bush. 36 He brought 
them out, after that he had shown signs and won- 
ders in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and 
in the wilderness forty years. 



*Ex. 3:6. 

Chapter 7:22-36 



284 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 



37 "This is the Moses who said unto the children 
of Israel, 'A prophet shall the Lord your God raise 
up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him 
shall you hear. ' l 38 This is he, that was in the church 
in the wilderness with the angel who spoke to him 
in mount Sinai, and with our fathers; who received 
the living oracles to give unto us: 39 whom our 
fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, 
and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt, 
40 saying unto Aaron, 'Make us gods to go before 
us; for as for this Moses, who brought us out of the 
land of Egypt, we know not what is become of him.' 2 
** #* ** 

41 "And they made a calf in those days, and 
offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the 
work of their own hands. 42 Then God turned, 
and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as 
it is written in the book of the prophets: 

'O you house of Israel, 
Have you offered to me slain beasts 

and sacrifices 
By the space of forty years in the wilderness? 

43 Yea, you took up the tabernacle of Moloch, 
And the star of your god Remphan, 
Figures which you made to worship them: 
And I will carry you away beyond Babylon.' 3 

*#* * *** 

44 "Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in 
the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto 
Moses, that he should make it according to the 
fashion that he had seen. 45 Which also our 
fathers that came after brought in with Joshua into 
the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drove 
out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of 
David; 46 who found favor before God, and de- 
sired to build a tabernacle for the God of Jacob. 
47 But Solomon built him a house. 48 Howbeit the 
Most High dwelleth not in temples made with 
hands ; as saith the prophet : 

* * * 

49 ' Heaven is my throne ; 
And earth is my footstool: 



1 Deut. 18:15. 2 Ex. 32:1. 3 Amos 5:25. 

Chapter 7:37-49 



7:50 The Acts of the Apostles 285 

What house will you build me ? saith the Lord ? : 
Or what is the place of my rest ? 

50 Hath not my hands made all these things?' 1 

Epilogue 

51 "Ye stifTnecked and uncircumcised in heart 
and ears, you do always resist the Holy Spirit: 
as your fathers did, so do you. 52 Which of the 
prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and 
they have slain them that showed before the coming 
of the Just One; of whom you have been now the 
betrayers and murderers: 53 who have received 
the law by the disposition of angels, and have not 
kept it." 



HI. THE EXECUTION OF STEPHEN 
The Consent of Saul to the Death of Stephen 

54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, 
and they gnashed on him with their teeth. 55 But he, being 
full of the Holy Spirit, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and 
saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of 
God, 56 and said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the 
Son of man standing on the right hand of God!" 57 Then they 
cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon 
him with one accord, 58 and cast him out of the city, and stoned 
him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's 
feet, whose name was Saul. 59 And they stoned Stephen, call- 
ing upon God, and saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." 60 
And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, "Lord, lay 
not this sin to their charge." And when he had said this, he fell 
asleep. 8:1 And Saul was consenting unto his death. 



IV. THE GREAT PERSECUTION IN JERUSALEM 
The Dispersion of the Disciples 

And at that time there was a great persecution against 
the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered 
abroad throughout the region of Judasa and Samaria, except 
the apostles. 2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, 
and made great lamentation over him. 2 3 And as for Saul, he 
made havoc of the church, entering into every house, and haling 
men and women committed them to prison. 

l Lsa. 66:12. 

2 A public protest against the martyrdom of Stephen. 

Chapter 7:50-8:3 



286 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

§2. THE MINISTRY IN SAMARIA 

I. THE MINISTRY OF PHILIP THE EVANGELIST 

The Rejoicing Among the People 

4 Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every- 
where preaching the word. 5 Then Philip went down to the 
city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. 6 And the 
people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip 
spoke, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. 7 For 
unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that 
were possessed with them : and many taken with palsies, and that 
were lame, were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city. 



II. THE BAPTISM OF SIMON MAGUS 
The Ministry of Philip to Simon 

9 But there was a certain man, called Simon, who before- 
time in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people 
of Samaria, giving out that he himself was some great one: 10 
to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, 
"This man is the great power of God." 11 And to him they 
had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them 
with sorceries. 12 But when they believed Philip, preaching the 
things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus 
Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Then 
Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he con- 
tinued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and 
signs which were done. 



III. THE MISSION OF PETER AND JOHN 
The Samaritan Pentecost 

14 Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that 
Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them 
Peter and John: 15 who, when they were come down, prayed 
for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For as 
yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in 
the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then laid they their hands on 
them, and they received the Holy Spirit. 



IV. THE BLASPHEMY OF SIMON MAGUS 
The Apostle Peter's Rebuke 

18 And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the 
a.postles' hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, 
19 saying, "Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I 

Chapter 8:4-19 



8:20 The Acts of the Apostles 287 

lay hands, he may receive the Holy Spirit." 20 But Peter 
said unto him, "Thy money perish with thee, because that thou 
hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. 
21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart 
is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this 
thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thy 
heart may be forgiven thee. 23 For I perceive that thou art 
in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity." 24 Then 
answered Simon, and said, "Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none 
of these things that you have spoken come upon me." 25 And 
they, when they had testified, and preached the word of the Lord, 
returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages 
of the Samaritans. 



§3. THE CONVERSION OF AN ETHIOPIAN 
THE CALL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 

The Ministry of Philip 

26 And the angel of the Lord spoke unto Philip, saying, "Arise, 
and go toward the south, unto the way that goeth down from 
Jerusalem unto Gaza," which is desert. 27 And he arose and 
went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great au- 
thority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the 
charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem to worship, 
28 was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Isaiah the 
prophet. 29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, "Go near, and 
join thyself to this chariot." 30 And Philip ran thither to him, 
and heard him read the prophet Isaiah, and said, " Understandest 
thou what thou readest?" 31 And he said, "How can I, except 
some man should guide me?" And he desired Philip that he 
would come up and sit with him. 32 The place of the scripture 
which he read was this: 

"He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; 
And like a lamb dumb before his shearer, 
So opened he not his mouth : 
33 In his humiliation his judgment was taken 
away: 
And who shall declare his generation? 
For his life is taken from the earth." ' 

34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, "I pray thee, of 
whom speakest the prophet this? of himself, or of some other 
man?" 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the 

*Isa. 53:7. 

Chapter 8:20-35 



288 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. 36 And as they 
went on their way, they came unto a certain water : and the eunuch 
said, ''See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?" 
37 And Philip said, "If thou believest with all thy heart, thou 
mayest." And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ 
is the Son of God." 38 And he commanded the chariot to stand 
still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and 
the eunuch; and he baptized him. 39 And when they had come 
up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, 
so that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way 
rejoicing. 40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing 
through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea. 



§4. THE CONVERSION OF SAUL OF TARSUS 

I. THE PERSECUTION OF SAUL AT DAMASCUS 

The Interference of Jesus Near the City 

9:1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter 
against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, 2 
and desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that 
if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, 
he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. 3 And as he 
journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shone 
round about him a light from heaven: 4 and he fell to the 
earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, "Saul, Saul, why per- 
secutest thou me?" 5 And he said, "Who art thou, Lord?" 
And the Lord said, "I am Jesus, whom thou persecutest: it is 
hard for thee to kick against the pricks. ' ' 6 And he trembling and 
astonished said, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?" And 
the Lord said unto him, "Arise, and go into the city, and it shall 
be told thee what thou must do." 7 And the men who journeyed 
with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. 
8 And Saul arose from the earth : and when his eyes were opened, 
he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him 
into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and 
did neither eat nor drink. 



II. THE MINISTRY OF ANANIAS TO SAUL 
The Restoration and Baptism of Saul 

10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named 
Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, "Ananias." And 
he said, "Behold, I am here, Lord." 11 And the Lord said unto 
him, "Arise, and go into the street that is called Straight, and 
inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, 

Chapter 8:36-9:11 



9:12 The Acts of the Apostles 289 

behold, he prayeth, 12 and hath seen in a vision a man named 
Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might 
receive his sight." 13 Then Ananias answered, "Lord, I have 
heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy 
saints at Jerusalem: 14 and here he hath authority from the 
chief priests to bind all that call on thy name." 15 But the Lord 
said unto him, "Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, 
to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children 
of Israel: 16 for I will show him how great things he must 
suffer for my name's sake." 17 And Ananias went his way, and 
entered into the house ; and putting his hands on him said, "Brother 
Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared unto thee in the way as thou 
earnest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and 
be filled with the Holy Spirit." 18 And immediately there fell 
from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forth- 
with, and arose, and was baptized. 19 And when he had received 
meat he was strengthened. 



III. THE PREACHING OF CHRIST BY SAUL 
The Amazement of the People 

Then was Saul certain days with the disciples who were at 
Damascus. 20 And straightway he preached Christ in the syn- 
agogues, that he is the Son of God. 21 But all that heard him 
were amazed, and said, "Is not this he that destroyed them 
that called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that 
intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?" 
22 But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the 
Jews who dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is the very Christ. 



IV. THE PLOT OF THE JEWS AGAINST SAUL 
The Return to Jerusalem and Tarsus 

23 And after many days were fulfilled, 1 the Jews took coun- 
sel to kill him: 24 but their lying in wait was known by Saul. 
And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. 25 Then 
the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall 
in a basket. 26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he 
essayed to join himself to the disciples; but they were all afraid 
of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas 
took him, and brought him to the apostles, 2 and declared unto 
them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had 

1 Probably three years. See Gal. 1:18. 

2 Peter, the chief of the Apostles, and James, the chief pastor in Jerusalem. 
Gal. l:18f. 

Chapter 9:12-27 



290 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in 
the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with them coming in and 
going out at Jerusalem. 29 And he spoke boldly in the name of 
the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Graecians: but they 
went about to slay him. 30 Which when the brethren knew, 
they brought him down to Csesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus. 



She Ehxzb Summary 

31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and 
Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of 
the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, were multiplied. 



Part IFonr 
The Gospel for the Gentiles 



§1. THE TOUR OF PETER THROUGH PALESTINE 
I. THE MINISTRY AT LYDDA AND SHARON 

The Healing of JSneas at Lydda 

And it came to pass, that as Peter passed throughout all 
quarters, he came down also to the saints that dwelt at Lydda. 
33 And there he found a certain man named ^Eneas, who had 
kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. 34 And 
Peter said unto him, "^Eneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: 
arise, and make thy bed." And he arose immediately. 35 And 
all that dwelt at Lydda and Sharon saw him, and turned to the 
Lord. 



H. THE CALL OF THE APOSTLE PETER TO JOPPA 
The Restoration of Dorcas by Peter 

36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, 
which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was of 
good works and almsdeeds which she did. 37 And it came to 
pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they 
had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. 38 And foras- 
much as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard 
that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him 
that he would not delay to come to them. 39 Then Peter arose 
and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into 
the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, 
and showing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while 
she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled 
down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, "Tabitha, 
arise." And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she 
sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when 
he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. 42 
And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in 
the Lord. 43 And it came to pass, that he tarried many days 
in Joppa with one Simon a tanner. 

291 Chapter 9:32-43 



292 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

§2. THE GENTILE PENTECOST AT CiESAREA 

I. THE VISION OF CORNELIUS AT OESAREA 

The Messengers to Peter at Joppa 

10:1 There was a certain man in Cassarea called Cornelius, 
a centurion of the band called the Italian band, 2 a devout 
man, and one that feared God with all his house, who gave 
much alms to the people, and prayed to God always. 3 He 
saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an 
angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, "Corne- 
lius." 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, 
"What is it, Lord?" And he said unto him, "Thy prayers and 
thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. 5 And now 
send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is 
Peter: 6 he lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is 
by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do." 7 
And when the angel that spoke unto Cornelius was departed, 
he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier 
of them that waited on him continually: 8 and when he had 
declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa. 



H. THE VISION OF PETER AT JOPPA 
a. The Three-Fold Revelation 

9 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew 
nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray 
about the sixth hour: 10 and he became very hungry, and 
would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a 
trance, 11 and saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel de- 
scending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four 
corners, and let down to the earth: 12 wherein were all manner 
of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping 
things, and fowls of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him, 
"Rise, Peter; kill, and eat." 14 But Peter said, "Not so, Lord; 
for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean." 
15 And the voice spoke unto him again the second time, "What 
God hath cleansed, that call not thou common." 16 This was 
done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven. 



b. The Messengers from Cornelius 

17 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which 
he had seen should mean, behold, the men who were sent from 
Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before 
the gate, 18 and called, and asked whether Simon, who was 

Chapter 10:1-18 



10:19 The Acts of the Apostles 293 

surnamed Peter, were lodged there. 19 And while Peter thought 
on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, "Behold, three men seek 
thee. 20 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, 
doubting nothing: for I have sent them." 21 Then Peter went 
down to the men who were sent unto him from Cornelius, and 
said, "Behold, I am he whom you seek: what is the cause where- 
fore you are come?" 22 And they said, " Cornelius the centurion, 
a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among 
all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by a holy angel 
to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee." 23 
Then called he them in, and lodged them. 



IH. THE MINISTRY OF PETER AT C^SAREA 
a. The Meeting of Peter with Cornelius 

And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain 
brethren from Joppa accompanied him. 24 And the morrow 
after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for 
them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends. 25 
And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down 
at his feet, and worshipped him. 26 But Peter took him up, 
saying, "Stand up; I myself also am a man." 27 And as he 
talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come 
together. 28 And he said unto them, "You know that it is an 
unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come 
in unto one of another nation; but God hath shown me that I 
should not call any man common or unclean. 29 Therefore 
came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: 
I ask therefore for what intent you have sent for me?" 30 And 
Cornelius said, "Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; 
and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man 
stood before me in bright clothing, 31 and said, 'Cornelius, thy 
prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the 
sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, 
whose surname is Peter ; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a 
tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto 
thee.' 33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast 
well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here 
present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee 
of God." 

b. The Address of Peter at Caesarea 

34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said: 

* * * 

"Of a truth I perceive that God is no re- 
specter of persons: 35 but in every nation he 

Chapter 10:19-35 



294 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is 
accepted with him. 36 The word which God sent 
unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by 
Jesus Christ [he is Lord of all], 37 that word, 
I say, you know, which was published throughout 
all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the 
baptism which John preached: 38 how that God 
anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit, 
and with power; who went about doing good, and 
healing all that were oppressed of the devil: for 
God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all 
things which he did both in the land of the Jews, 
and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a 
tree: 40 him God raised up the third day, and 
showed him openly; 41 not to all the people, but 
unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who 
did eat and drink with him after he rose from the 
dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach unto the 
people, and to testify that it is he that was or- 
dained of God to be the judge of quick and dead. 43 
To him give all the prophets witness, that through 
his name whosoever believeth in him shall re- 
ceive remission of sins." 



c. The Coming of the Holy Spirit 

44 While Peter yet spoke these words, the Holy Spirit fell 
on all them that heard the word. 45 And they of the circum- 
cision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, 
because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the 
Holy Spirit. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and 
magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 "Can any man forbid 
water, that these should not be baptized, who have received the 
Holy Spirit as well as we?" 48 And he commanded them to 
be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to 
tarry certain days. 



IV. THE ACTION OF THE CHURCH AT JERUSALEM 
The Admission of the Gentiles to the, Church 

11:1 And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard 
that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. 2 And 
when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the 
circumcision contended with him, 3 saying, "Thou wentest in 
to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them." 4 But Peter 

Chapter 10:36-11:4 



11:5 The Acts of the Apostles 295 

rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by- 
order unto them, saying: 

* * * 

5 "I was in the city of Joppa, praying: and in 
a trance I saw a vision: a certain vessel descended, 
as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven 
by four corners; and it came even to me: 6 upon 
which, when I had fastened my eyes, I considered, 
and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild 
beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 7 
And I heard a voice saying unto me, 'Arise, Peter, 
slay and eat.' 8 But I said, 'Not so, Lord: for 
nothing common or unclean hath at any time 
entered into my mouth.' 9 But the voice answered 
me again from heaven, 'What God hath cleansed, 
that call thou not common.' 10 And this was done 
three times: and all were drawn up again into 
heaven. 11 And, behold, immediately there were 
three men already come unto the house where I 
was, sent from Csesarea unto me. 12 And the 
Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. 
Moreover, these six brethren accompanied me, and 
we entered into the man's house. 13 And he 
showed us how he had seen an angel in his house, 
who stood and said unto him, 'Send men to Joppa, 
and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; 14 
who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy 
house shall be saved; 15 And as I began to speak, 
the Holy Spirit fell on them, as on us at the beginning. 
16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how 
that he said, 'John indeed baptized with water; 
but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.' 17 
Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he 
did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, 
who was I that I could resist God?" 

* 

18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and 
glorified God, saying, "Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted 
repentance unto life." 



§3. THE GENTILE CHURCH AT ANTIOCH 

I. THE FOUNDING OF THE CHURCH 

The Great Awakening Among Jews and Greeks 

19 Now they that were scattered abroad upon the persecu- 
tion that arose about Stephen, traveled as far as Phoenicia, and 

Chapter 11:5-19 



296 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word but unto the Jews only. 
20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who, 
when they were come to Antioch, spoke unto the Graecians 
preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was 
with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the 
Lord. 



H. THE MISSION OF BARNABAS FROM JERUSALEM 
The Addition of Many People to the Church 

22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the 
church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barna- 
bas, that he should go as far as Antioch ; 23 who, when he came, 
and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them 
all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 
24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of 
faith: and many people were added to the Lord. 



m. THE COMING OF PAUL TO ANTIOCH 
The Beginning of the Christian Name 

25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus for to seek Saul; 26 
and when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And 
it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves 
with the church and taught many people. And the disciples were 
called Christians first in Antioch. 



IV. THE FAMINE MISSION OF JERUSALEM 
The Gift of Every Man to the Mission 

27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto An- 
tioch. 28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and 
signified by the Spirit that there should be a great dearth through- 
out all the world; which came to pass in the days of Claudius 
Caesar. 1 29 Then the disciples, every man according to his 
ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren who dwelt 
in Judaea; 30 which also they did, and sent it to the elders 
by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. 



1 Claudius reigned A. D. 41-54. 

Chapter 11:20-30 



12:1 The Acts of the Apostles 297 

§4. THE PERSECUTION OF HEROD AGRIPPA I 1 

I. THE DEATH OF THE APOSTLE JAMES 

The Beheading of James by Herod 

12:1 Now about that time Herod the king stretched f orth his 
hand to vex certain of the church. 2 And he killed James the 
brother of John with the sword. 



H. THE ASSAULT UPON PETER 
a. The Arrest of Peter and Prayer of the Church 

3 And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded fur- 
ther to take Peter also. [Then were the days of unleavened 
bread.] 4 And when he had apprehended him, he put him in 
prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to 
keep him ; intending after easter to bring him forth to the people. 
5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made with- 
out ceasing by the church unto God for him. 



b. The Miraculous Deliverance of Peter 

6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same 
night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two 
chains: and the keepers before the door kept the- prison. 7 And, 
behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shone 
in the prison; and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, 
saying, "Arise up quickly." And his chains fell off from his hands. 
8 And the angel said unto him, "Gird thyself, and bind on thy 
sandals." And so he did. And he saith unto him, "Cast thy 
garment about thee, and follow me." 9 And he went out, and 
followed him; and knew not that it was true that was done by 
the angel; but thought he saw a vision. 10 When they were 
past the first and second ward, they came unto the iron gate that 
leadeth into the city, which opened to them of its own accord; 
and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forth- 
with the angel departed from him. 11 And when Peter was 
come to himself, he said, "Now I know of a surety, that the Lord 
hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of 
Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews." 



c. The Return of Peter to the Disciples 

12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the 
house of Mary, the mother of John, whose surname was Mark, 

1 Herod Agrippa I. was made Governor by Emperor Caligula A. D. 37, 
and King by Emperor Claudius A. D. 41. 

Chapter 12:1-12 



298 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

where many were gathered together praying. 13 And as Peter 
knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named 
Rhoda. 14 And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not 
the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before 
the gate. 15 And they said unto her, "Thou art mad." But she 
confidently affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, "It is 
his angel." 16 But Peter continued knocking: and when they 
had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished. 17 But 
he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, de- 
clared unto them how the Lord brought him out of the prison. 
And he said, "Go show these things unto James, and to the breth- 
ren." And he departed, and went into another place. 



III. THE DEATH OF THE JAILORS 
The Order of King Herod 

18 Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among 
the soldiers, what had become of Peter. 19 And when Herod 
had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, 
and commanded that they should be put to death. 



IV. THE BLASPHEMY AND DEATH OF THE KING 
The Last Days of Herod at Caesarea 

And he went down from Judaea to Cassarea, and there abode. 
20 And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Si- 
don: and they came with one accord to him, and having made 
Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; be- 
cause their country was nourished by the king's country. 21 
And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon 
his throne, and made an oration unto them. 22 And the people 
gave a shout, saying, "It is the voice of a god, and not of a man." 
23 And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because 
he gave not God the glory ; and he was eaten of worms, and gave 
up the ghost. 



She ffnurth Summary 

24 But the word of God grew and multiplied. 



Jhrt IFtbf 
The First Gentile Churches 



§1. THE MINISTRY OF PAUL THROUGH CYPRUS 

I. THE CALL OF BARNABAS AND PAUL AT ANTIOCH 
The Departure on the First Missionary Journey 

And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they 
had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose 
surname was Mark. 13:1 Now there were in the church that was 
at Antioch certain prophets and teachers: as Barnabas, and 
Simeon who was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, 
who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 
As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, 
"Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have 
called them." 3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and 
laid their hands on them, they sent them away. 



II. THE CONVERSION OF THE PROCONSUL 
The Ministry of John Mark 

4 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Spirit, departed 
unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. 5 And 
when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in 
the synagogue of the Jews : and they had also John to their minis- 
try. 6 And when they had gone through the island unto Paphos, 
they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name 
was Bar-jesus: 7 who was with the deputy 1 of the country, 
Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, 
and desired to hear the word of God. 8 But Elymas the sor- 
cerer, for so is his name by interpretation, withstood them, seek- 
ing to turn away the deputy from the faith. 9 Then Saul, who 
also is called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, set his eyes on him, 
10 and said, "O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child 
of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease 
to pervert the right ways of the Lord? 11 And now, behold, 
the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not 

1 The Roman Proconsul. 

299 Chapter 12:25-13:11 



300 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

seeing the sun for a season." And immediately there fell on him 
a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead 
him by the hand. 12 Then the deputy, when he saw what was 
done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord. 



§2. THE MINISTRY OF PAUL IN GALATIA 

I. THE CHURCH AT ANTIOCH OF PISIDIA 

a. The Sermon of Paul in the Synagogue 

13 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they 
came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them re- 
turned to Jerusalem. 14 But when they departed from Perga, 
they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue 
on the sabbath day, and sat down. 15 And after the reading 
of the law and the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent 
unto them, saying, "Ye men and brethren, if you have any word 
of exhortation for the people, say on." 16 Then Paul stood up, 
and beckoning with his hand said : 

"Men of Israel, and you that fear God, give 

audience : 

* 

17 "The God of this people of Israel chose our 
fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt 
as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with a high 
arm brought he them out of it. 

* 

18 "And about the time of forty years suffered 
he their manners in the wilderness. 

* 

19 "And when he had destroyed seven nations in 

the land of Canaan, he divided their land to them 

by lot. 

* 

20 "And after that he gave unto them judges about 
the space of four hundred years, until Samuel the 
prophet. 

21 "And afterward they desired a king: and 

God gave unto them Saul the son of Kish, a man 

of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty 

years. 

* 

22 "And when he had removed him, he raised up 

Chapter 13:12-22 



13:23 The Acts of the Apostles 301 

David to be their king; to whom also he gave testi- 
mony, and said: 

* * * 

'I have found David the son of Jesse, 
A man after my own heart, 
Who shall fulfill all my will/ 1 
* 

23 "Of this man's seed hath God according to 
his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus: 

24 when John had first preached before his coming 
the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. 

25 And as John fulfilled his course, he said, 'Whom 
think ye that I am? I am not he. But, behold, there 
cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I 
am not worthy to loose.' 

* * * 

26 "Men and brethren, children of the stock of 
Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to 
you is the word of this salvation sent. 27 For 
they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, be- 
cause they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the 
prophets which are read every sabbath day, they 
have fulfilled them in condemning him. 28 And 
though they found no cause of death in him, yet 
desired they Pilate that he should be slain. 29 And 
when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, 
they took him down from the tree, and laid him 
in a sepulchre. 30 But God raised him from the 
dead: 31 and he was seen many days by them 
that came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, 
who are his witnesses to the people. 32 And we 
declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise 
which was made unto the fathers, 33 God hath 
fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he 
hath raised up Jesus again ; as it is also written in 

the second psalm: 

* * * 

'Thou art my Son, 
This day have I begotten thee.' 2 
* 

34 ' 'And as concerning that he raised him up from 
the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said 
on this wise, T will give you the sure mercies of David.' J 
35 Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, 'Thou 



1 1 Sam. 13 :14 ; Ps. 89 :20. 2 Ps. 2 :7. 3 Isa. 55 :3. 

Chapter 13:23-35 



302 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.' 1 
36 For David, after he had served his own gen- 
eration by the will of God, fell asleep, and was laid 
unto his fathers, and saw corruption: 37 but he, 
whom God raised again, saw no corruption. 

* * * 

38 "Be it known unto you therefore, men and 
brethren, that through this man is preached unto you 
the forgiveness of sins : 39 and by him all that be- 
lieve are justified from all things, from which you 
could not be justified by the law of Moses. 40 Be- 
ware therefore, lest that come upon you, which 
is spoken of in the prophets : 

* * * 

41 'Behold, you despisers, and wonder, and 
perish : 
For I work a work in your days, 
A work which you shall in no wise believe, 
Though a man declare it unto you.' " 2 

* 

42 And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the 
Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them 
the next sabbath. 43 Now when the congregation was broken 
up many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul 
and Barnabas; who, speaking to them, persuaded them to con- 
tinue in the grace of God. 



b. The Persecution of Paul and Barnabas 

44 And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city to- 
gether to hear the word of God. 45 But when the Jews saw the 
multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spoke against those 
things that were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. 
46 Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold and said, "It was neces- 
sary that the word of God should first have been spoken unto 
you; but seeing you put it from you, and judge yourselves un- 
worthy of eternal life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. 47 For so 
hath the Lord commanded us, saying: 

'I have set thee to be a light to the Gentiles, 
That thou shouldest be for salvation 
Unto the uttermost part of the earth.' " ' 



Ps. 16:10. 2 Hab. 1 :5. 3 Isa. 49:6. 

Chapter 13:36-47 



13:48 The Acts of the Apostles 303 

48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glo- 
rified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained unto 
eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was pub- 
lished throughout all that region. 50 But the Jews stirred up 
the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, 
and raised a persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled 
them out of their borders. 51 But they shook off the dust of 
their feet against them, and came into Iconium. 52 And the 
disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Spirit. 



H. THE CHURCH AT ICONIUM 
The Ministry and Departure of Paul and Barnabas 

14:1 And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both 
together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke, that 
a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks be- 
lieved. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, 
and made their minds evil affected against the brethren. 3 
Long time therefore abode they, speaking boldly in the Lord, 
who gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted 
signs and wonders to be done by their hands. 4 But the multi- 
tude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and 
part with the apostles. 5 And when there was an assault made 
both by the Gentiles, and also by the Jews with their rulers, to 
use them despitefully, and to stone them, 6 they were aware 
of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto 
the region that lieth round about: 7 and there they preached 
the gospel. 



m. THE CHURCH AT LYSTRA 
The Adoration of Paul and Barnabas by the Lystrans 

8 And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his 
feet, being a cripple from his birth, who never had walked: 9 
the same heard Paul speak; who stedfastly beholding him, and 
perceiving that he had faith to be healed, 10 said with a loud 
voice, ' 'Stand upright on thy feet." And he leaped and walked. 
1 1 And when the people saw what was done, they lifted up their 
voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, "The gods are come down 
to us in the likeness of men." 12 And they called Barnabas, 
Jupiter; and Paul, Mercury, because he was the chief speaker. 
13 Then the priest of Jupiter, who was before their city, brought 
oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice 
with the people, 14 which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, 
heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, 

Chapter 13:48-14:14 



304 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

crying out, 15 and saying, "Sirs, why do ye these things? We 
also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that 
you should turn from these vanities unto the living God, who made 
heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein: 

16 who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. 

17 Nevertheless, he left not himself without witness, in that he 
did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, 
filling our hearts with food and gladness." 18 And with these 
sayings scarcely restrained they the people, that they had not 
done sacrifice unto them. 



IV. THE CHURCH AT DERBE 
The Stoning of Paul and Return to Antioch 

19 And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and 
Iconium, and persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, 
drew him out of the city, supposing he was dead. 20 Howbeit, 
as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came 
into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to 
Derbe. 21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, 
and had taught many, they return again to Lystra, and to Iconium, 
and Antioch, 22 confirming the souls of the disciples, and ex- 
horting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through 
much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. 23 And when 
they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed 
with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they 
believed. 24 And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, 
they came to Pamphylia. 25 And when they had preached the 
gospel in Perga, they went down to Attalia: 26 and thence 
sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to 
the grace of God for the work they fulfilled. 27 And when they 
were come and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed 
all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the 
door of faith unto the Gentiles. 28 And there they abode a 
long time with the disciples. 



§3. THE GENTILE COUNCIL AT JERUSALEM 

I. THE CONTROVERSY AT ANTIOCH 

The Appeal to the Apostles and Elders at Jerusalem 

15 : 1 And certain men that came down from Judasa taught the 
brethren, and said, "Except ye be circumcised after the man- 
ner of Moses, you cannot be saved." 2 When therefore Paul and 
Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, 
they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain others of 

Chapter 14:15-15:2 



15:3 The Acts of the Apostles 305 

them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders 
about this question. 3 And being brought on their way by the 
church, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, declaring 
the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto 
all the brethren. 4 And when they were come to Jerusalem, 
they were received by the church, and by the apostles and elders, 
and they declared all things that God had done with them. 5 
But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees who believed, 
saying, that it was needful to circumcise them, and to command 
them to keep the law of Moses. 



n. THE COUNCIL OF APOSTLES AND ELDERS 
a. The Address of the Apostle Peter 

6 And the apostles and elders came together to consider this 

matter. 7 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose 

up, and said unto them: 

* * * 

"Men and brethren, you know how that a good 
while ago 1 God made choice among us, that the 
Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the 
gospel, and believe. 8 And God, who knoweth 
the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the 
Holy Spirit, even as he did unto us; 9 and put 
no difference between us and them, purifying their 
hearts by faith. 10 Now therefore why tempt 
ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, 
which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? 
11 But we believe that through the grace of the 
Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they." 



b. The Report of Barnabas and Paul 

12 Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to 
Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had 
wrought among the Gentiles by them. 



c. The Recommendation of James 2 

13 And after they had held their peace, James answered, 



saying: 

* 



"Men and brethren, hearken unto me: Simeon 
hath declared how God at the first did visit the 



1 Acts 10: If. 2 The Pastor of the Church in Jerusalem. 

Chapter 15:3-13 



306 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. 

15 And to this agree the words of the prophets; as 

it is written: 

* * * 

16 'After this I will return, 

And will build again the tabernacle of 

David, 
Which is fallen down; 
And I will build again the ruins thereof, 
And I will set it up : 

17 That the residue of men might seek after 

the Lord, 
And all the Gentiles, upon whom my 

name is called, 
Saith the Lord, who doeth all these things. 

18 Known unto God are all his works from 

the beginning of the world.' 1 
* 

19 Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not 
them who from among the Gentiles are turned unto 
God: 20 but that we write unto them, that they 
abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornica- 
tion, and from things strangled, and from blood. 21 
For Moses of old time hath in every city them that 
preach him, being read in the synagogue every sab- 
bath day." 



III. THE ACTION OF THE COUNCIL 
The Exemption of the Gentiles from Circumcision 

22 Then it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole 

church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch 

with Paul and Barnabas : namely, Judas surnamed Barnabas, and 

Silas, chief men among the brethren: 23 and they wrote letters 

by them after this manner : 

* * * 

"The apostles and elders and brethren send 
greeting unto the brethren who are of the Gentiles 
in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia: 

24 "Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain 
who went out from us have troubled you with words, 
subverting your souls, saying, 'You must be cir- 
cumcised and keep the law;' to whom we gave no 
such commandment; 25 it seemed good unto us, 



Amos 9:11-12. 

Chapter 15:15-25 



15:16 The Acts of the Apostles 307 

being assembled with one accord, to send chosen 
men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, 
26 men that have hazarded their lives for the name 
of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27 We have sent there- 
fore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same 
things, by mouth. 28 For it seemed good to the 
Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no great- 
er burden than these necessary things: 29 That 
you abstain from meats offered unto idols, and 
from blood, and from things strangled, and from 
fornication; from which if you keep yourselves, 
you shall do well. 

"Fare you well." 



IV. THE DELIVERY OF THE DECREES 
The Ministry of Paul, Barnabas and Silas at Antioch 

30 So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch; and 
when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered 
the epistle: 31 which when they had read, they rejoiced for 
the consolation. 32 And Judas and Silas, being prophets also 
themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and con- 
firmed them. 33 And after they had tarried there a space, 
they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles. 
34 Notwithstanding, it pleased Silas to abide there still. 35 
Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preach- 
ing the word of the Lord, with many others also. 



§4. THE VISIT TO THE GALATIAN CHURCHES 

THE SECOND MISSIONARY JOURNEY 

The Delivery of the Decrees 

36 And some days after, Paul said unto Barnabas, "Let us 
go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have 
preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do." 37 And 
Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was 
Mark. 38 But Paul thought it not good to take with them him 
who withdrew from them from Pamphylia, and went not with 
them to the work. 1 39 And the contention was so sharp between 
them, that they parted asunder one from another : and so Barnabas 
took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; 40 and Paul chose Silas, 2 
and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the 

1 Acts 13:13. * Paul calls him Silvanas. 

Chapter 15:26-40 



308 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

grace of God. 41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, con- 
firming the churches. 16: 1 Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: 
and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the 
son of a certain woman, who was a Jewess, and believed; but his 
father was a Greek : 2 who was well reported of by the brethren 
who were at Lystra and Iconium. 3 Him would Paul have to 
go forth with him; and he took and circumcised him because of 
the Jews who were in those quarters; for they all knew that his 
father was a Greek. 4 And as they went through the cities, 
they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained 
of the apostles and elders who were at Jerusalem. 



She Jfffth Summaru 

5 And so were the churches established in the faith, and 
increased in number daily. 



Part §ix 

The Churches in Macedonia, Greece 

and Asia 



§1. THE CALL OF PAUL INTO MACEDONIA 

THE DIVINE GUIDANCE TOWARD TROAS 

The Journey to Philippi in Macedonia 

Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region 
of Galatia, and were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach 
the word in Asia, 7 after they had come to Mysia they essayed 
to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. 8 And 
they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. 9 And a vision 
appeared to Paul in the night : There stood a man l of Macedonia, 
and prayed him, saying, "Come over into Macedonia, and help 
us." 10 And after he had seen the vision, immediately we 
endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the 
Lord had called us to preach the gospel unto them. 11 There- 
fore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Sa- 
mothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; 12 and from thence 
to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, 
and a colony. 



§2. THE MINISTRY OF PAUL IN MACEDONIA 

I. THE CHURCH AT PHILIPPI 

The Residence with Lydia of Thyatira 

And we were in that city abiding certain days. 13 And on 
the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer 
was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spoke to the women 
who resorted thither. 14 And a certain woman named Lydia, 
a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, who worshipped God, 
heard us; whose heart the Lord opened, so that she attended to 
the things that were spoken by Paul. 15 And when she was 
baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, "If you 
have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, 
and abide there." And she constrained us. 



This is believed to be Luke, the author of Acts. 

309 Chapter 16:6-15 



310 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

II. THE CONVERSION OF THE JAILOR 
a. The Healing of a Damsel 

16 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, that a certain 
damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought 
her masters much gain by soothsaying. 17 The same followed 
Paul and us, and cried, saying, "These men are the servants of 
the Most High God, who show unto us the way of salvation." 
18 And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned 
and said to the spirit, "I command thee in the name of Jesus 
Christ to come out of her." And it came out the same hour. 



b. The Arrest and Imprisonment of Paul and Silas 

19 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gain was 
gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the mar- 
ketplace unto the rulers, 20 and brought them to the magis- 
trates, saying, "These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble 
our city, 21 and teach customs, which are not lawful for us to 
receive, neither to observe, being Romans. 22 And the multi- 
tude rose up together against them: and the magistrate rent 
off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. 23 And when 
they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, 
charging the jailor to keep them safely: 24 who, having received 
such a charge thrust them into the inner prison, and made their 
feet fast in the stocks. 



c. The Conversion of the Philippian Jailor 

25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises 
unto God: and the prisoners heard them. 26 And suddenly there 
was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison 
were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and 
every one's bands were loosed. 27 And the keeper of the prison, 
awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, drew 
out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the 
prisoners had fled. 28 But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, 
"Do thyself no harm: for we are all here." 29 Then he called 
for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down 
before Paul and Silas, 30 and brought them out, and said, 
"Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" 31 And they said, "Be- 
lieve on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy 
house." 32 And they spoke unto him the word of the Lord, and 
to all that were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour 
of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and 
all his, straightway. 34 And when he had brought them into 

Chapter 16:16-34 



16:35 The Acts of the Apostles 311 

his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in 
God with all his house. 



d. The Release and Departure of Paul and Silas 

35 And when it was day, the magistrates sent the sergeants, 
saying, "Let those men go." 36 And the keeper of the prison 
told this saying to Paul, "The magistrates have sent to let you 
go: now therefore depart, and go in peace." 37 But Paul said 
unto them, "They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being 
Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust 
us out privily? Nay verily; but let them come themselves and 
fetch us out. 38 And the sergeants told these words unto the 
magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were 
Romans. 39 And they came and besought them, and brought 
them out, and desired them to depart out of the city. 40 And 
they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia : 
and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and 
departed. 



m. THE CHURCH AT THESSALONICA 
The Persecution of Paul and Silas 

17:1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apol- 
lonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of 
the Jews; 2 and Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, 
and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scrip- 
tures, 3 opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have 
suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, "whom 
I preach unto you, is Christ." 4 And some of them believed, 
and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks 
a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few. 5 But 
the Jews who believed not, moved with envy, took unto them- 
selves certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a com- 
pany, and set all the city in an uproar, and assaulted the house 
of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people. 6 And 
when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren 
unto the rulers of the city, crying, "These that have turned the 
world upside down are come hither also; 7 whom Jason hath 
received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, say- 
ing that there is another king, one Jesus." 8 And they troubled 
the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things. 
9 And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the others, 
they let them go. 

Chapter 16:35-17:9 



312 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

IV. THE CHURCH AT BERCEA 
The Arrival at Beroea and Voyage to Athens 

10 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas 
by night unto Beroea: who coming thither went into the synagogue 
of the Jews. 11 These were more noble than those in Thes- 
salonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of 
mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether these things 
were so. 12 Therefore many of them believed; also of honour- 
able women who were Greeks, and of men, not a few. 13 But 
when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of 
God was preached by Paul at Bercea, they came thither also, 
and stirred up the people. 14 And then immediately the breth- 
ren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea : but Silas and Tim- 
othy abode there still. 15 And they that conducted Paul brought 
him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and 
Timothy to come to him with all speed, they departed. 



§3. THE MINISTRY OF PAUL IN GREECE 

I. THE APOSTLE AT ATHENS 

The Address to the Graecian Philosophers 

16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was 
stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry. 
17 Therefore disputed he in the synagogues with the Jews, 
and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them 
that met with him. 18 Then certain philosophers of the Epi- 
curians, and of the Stoics, encountered him. And some said, 
"What will this babbler say?" other some, "He seemeth to be a 
setter forth of strange gods:" because he preached unto them 
Jesus, and the resurrection. 19 And they took him, and brought 
him unto Areopagus, saying, "May we know what this new doc- 
trine, whereof thou speakest, is?" 20 For thou bringest cer- 
tain strange things to our ears : and we would know therefore what 
these things mean." 21 [For all the Athenians and strangers 
that were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to 
tell, or to hear some new thing.] 22 Then Paul stood in the 
midst of Mar's hill, and said : 

* * * 

"You men of Athens, I perceive that in all 
things you are too superstitious. 23 For as I 
passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an 
altar with this inscription, 'TO THE UNKNOWN 
GOD.' Whom therefore you ignorantly worship, 

Chapter 17:10-23 



17:24 The Acts of the Apostles 313 

him declare I unto you. 24 God that made the 

world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord 

of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made 

with hands ; 25 neither is worshiped with men's hands, 

as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to 

all life, and breath, and all things; 26 and hath 

made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell 

on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the 

times before appointed, and the bounds of their 

habitation; 27 that they should seek the Lord, 

if haply they might feel after him, and find him, 

though he be not far from every one of us : 28 for 

in him we live, and move, and have our being; as 

certain also of your own poets have said, Tor we 

are also his offspring.' 1 29 Forasmuch then as 

we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think 

that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or 

stone, graven by art and man's device. 30 And the 

times of this ignorance God overlooked; but now 

commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 

because he hath appointed a day, in which he will 

judge the world in righteousness by that man whom 

he hath ordained ; whereof he hath given assurance 

unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the 

dead." 

* 

32 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some 
mocked: and others said, "We will hear thee again of this mat- 
ter." 33 So Paul departed from among them. 34 Howbeit 
certain men clave unto him, and believed: among whom were 
Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and 
others with them. 



H. THE CHURCH AT CORINTH 
a. The Residence of Paul with Aquila and Priscilla 

18:1 After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came 
to Corinth; 2 and found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in 
Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla (because 
Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome) ; 
and he came unto them. 3 And because he was of the same 
trade, he abode with them, and wrought; for by their occupation 
they were tentmakers. 4 And he reasoned in the synagogue 
every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks. 

1 Aratus, Phenomena, 5; Cleanthes, Hymn to Jupiter, 5. 

Chapter 17:24-18:4 



314 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

b. The Ministry to the Gentiles 

5 And when Silas and Timothy were come from Macedonia, 
Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus 
was Christ. 6 And when they opposed themselves, and blas- 
phemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, "Your blood 
be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go 
unto the Gentiles." 7 And he departed thence and entered into 
a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, 
whose house joined hard to the synagogue. 8 And Crispus, 
the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all 
his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and 
were baptized. 9 Then spoke the Lord to Paul in the night by a 
vision, "Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: 10 
for I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: 
for I have much people in this city." 11 And he continued there 
a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. 1 



III. THE APOSTLE BEFORE THE PROCONSUL 
The Protection of the Roman Law 

12 But when Gallio was deputy of Achaia, the Jews made in- 
surrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the 
judgment seat, 13 saying, "This fellow persuadeth men to wor- 
ship God contrary to the law." 14 And when Paul was now about 
to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, "If it were a matter 
of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I 
should bear with you: 15 but if it be a question of words and 
names, and of your law, look ye to it ; for I will be no judge of such 
matters. 1 ' 16 And he drove them from the judgment seat. 17 
Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the syna- 
gogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared 
for none of those things. 



IV. THE RETURN OF PAUL TO ANTIOCH IN SYRIA 
The Stops at Ephesus and Jerusalem en Route 

18 And Paul after this tarried there a good while, and then 
took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and 
with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cen- 
chrea: for he had a vow. 19 And he came to Ephesus, and left 
them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and rea- 
soned with the Jews. 20 When they desired him to tarry longer 
time with them, he consented not; 21 but bade them farewell, 

1 Paul wrote the Epistles to the Thessalonians at this time. 

Chapter 18:5-21 



18:22 The Acts of the Apostles 315 

saying, "I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jeru- 
salem: but I will return again unto you, if God will." And he 
sailed from Ephesus. 22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, 
and gone up, and saluted the church, he went down to Antioch. 



§4. THE MINISTRY OF PAUL IN ASIA 

I. THE BEGINNING OF THE THIRD MISSIONARY JOURNEY 

The Ministry through Galatia and Phrygia 

23 And after he had spent some time there, 1 he departed, and 
went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strength- 
ening all the disciples. 



H. THE MINISTRY OF APOLLOS AT EPHESUS 
The Departure of Apollos into Achaia 

24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an 
eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. 
25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being 
fervent in the spirit, he spoke and taught diligently the things 
of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. 26 And he be- 
gan to speak boldly in the synagogue : whom when Aquila and 
Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded 
unto him the way of God more perfectly. 27 And when he was 
disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the 
disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them 
much that had believed through grace: 28 for he mightily 
convinced the Jews, and that publicly, showing by the scriptures 
that Jesus was Christ. 



IH. THE ARRIVAL OF PAUL AT EPHESUS 2 
The Pentecost for Certain Disciples 

19 : 1 And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, 
Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: 
and finding certain disciples, 2 he said unto them, "Have you 
received the Holy Spirit since you believed?" And they said 
unto him, "We have not so much as heard whether there be 
any Holy Spirit." 3 And he said unto them, "Unto what then 
were you baptized?" And they said, "Unto John's baptism." 

1 Paul is said to have written the Epistle to the Galatians from Antioch at 
this time. 2 Paul wrote J Corinthians while at Ephesus, and probably 

a part of II Corinthians. 

Chapter 18:22-19:3 



316 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

4 Then said Paul, "John verily baptized with the baptism of 
repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on 
him who should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus." 5 
When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord 
Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy 
Spirit came on them; and they spoke with tongues, and prophe- 
sied. 7 And all the men were about twelve. 



IV. THE EVANGELIZATION OF ASIA 
The Gentile Church in the School of Tyrannus 

8 And he went into the synagogue, and spoke boldly for the 
space of three months, disputing and persuading the things 
concerning the kingdom of God. 9 And when divers were hard- 
ened, and believed not, but spoke evil of that Way before the 
multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, 
disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus. 10 And this 
continued for the space of two years; so that all they that dwelt 
in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks. 

11 And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: 

12 so that from his body were brought unto the sick handker- 
chiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the 
evil spirits went out of them. 13 Then certain of the vagabond 
Jews, exorcists, took unto them to call over them that had evil 
spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, "We adjure you by 
Jesus whom Paul preacheth." 14 And there were seven sons 
of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, who did this. 15 
And the evil spirit answered and said, "Jesus I know, and Paul I 
know: but who are you?" 16 And the man in whom the evil 
spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed 
against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and 
wounded. 17 And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks 
also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name 
of the Lord Jesus was magnified. 18 And many that believed 
came, and confessed, and showed their deeds. 19 Many of them 
also that used curious arts brought their books together, and 
burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, 
and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver. 



She Sfxth Summary 

20 So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed. 



Part <gfb*n 
The Ministry of Paul at Rome 



§1. THE JOURNEY VIA CORINTH TO JERUSALEM 

I. THE PLAN OF PAUL TO VISIT ROME 

The Continued Ministry in Asia 

After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the Spirit, 
when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jer- 
usalem, saying, "After I have been there, I must also see Rome." 
22 So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto 
him, Timothy and Erastus ; but he himself stayed in Asia for a 
season. 



II. THE PAGAN RIOT AT EPHESUS 
a. The Agitation of Demetrius against Paul 

23 And at the same time there arose no small stir about that 
way. 24 For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, 
who made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto 
the craftsmen; 25 whom he called together with the work- 
men of like occupation, and said, "Sirs, you know that by this 
craft we have our wealth. 26 Moreover you see and hear, 
that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this 
Paul hath persuaded and turned away many people, saying 
that they be no gods which are made with hands: 27 so that 
not only this our craft is in danger of being set at nought ; but 
also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be de- 
spised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all 
Asia and the world worshippeth." 28 And when they heard 
these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, 
"Great is Diana of the Ephesians!" 



b. The Tumult in the City 

29 And the whole city was filled with confusion; and hav- 
ing caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's 
companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the 
theater. 30 And when Paul would have entered in unto the 

317 Chapter 19:21-30 



318 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

people, the disciples suffered him not. 31 And certain of the 
chief of Asia, who were his friends, sent unto him, desiring that 
he would not adventure himself into the theater. 32 Some 
therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly- 
was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were 
come together. 33 And they drew Alexander out of the multi- 
tude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned 
with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people. 
34 But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice 
about the space of two hours cried out, "Great is Diana of the 
Ephesians . ' ' 

c. The Interference of the Townclerk 

35 And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, 
11 Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knowethnot how that 
the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess 
Diana, and of the image that fell down from Jupiter? 36 Seeing 
then that these things cannot be spoken against, you ought to 
be quiet, and to do nothing rashly. 37 For you have brought 
hither these men, who are neither robbers of churches, nor yet 
blasphemers of your goddess. 38 Wherefore if Demetrius, and 
the craftsmen that are with him, have a matter against any 
man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them implead 
one another. 39 But if you enquire any thing concerning other 
matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly. 40 For 
we are in danger of being called in question for this day's uproar, 
there being no cause whereby we may give an account of this 
concourse." 41 And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the 
assembly. 

IH. THE JOURNEY INTO GREECE AND RETURN 
a. The Traveling Companions of Paul 

20:1 And after the uproar had ceased, Paul called unto him 
the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into 
Macedonia. 1 2 And when he had gone over those parts, and had 
given them much exhortation, he came into Greece, 3 and there 
abode three months. 1 And when the Jews laid wait for him, as 
he was about to sail unto Syria, he purposed to return through 
Macedonia. 4 And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of 
Bercea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; 
and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy; and of Asia, Tychicus and 
Trophimus. 5 These going before tarried for us at Troas. 6 
And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, 
and came unto them at Troas in five days ; where we abode seven days. 



1 Paul wrote II Corinthians and Romans at this time. 

Chapter 19:31-20:6 



20:7 The Acts of the Apostles 319 

b. The Restoration of Eutycus at Troas 

7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples were 
came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready 
to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until mid- 
night. 8 And there were many lights in the upper chamber, 
where they were gathered together. 9 And there sat in a window 
a certain young man named Eutycus, being fallen into a deep 
sleep; and as Paul was long preaching, he sank down with sleep, 
and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. 10 
And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, 
"Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him." 11 When he 
therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, 
and talked a long while, even till the break of day, so he departed. 
12 And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little 
comforted. 



c. The Voyage from Troas to Miletus 

13 And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there 
intending to take in Paul : for so had he appointed, minding him- 
self to go afoot. 14 And when he met with us at Assos, we 
took him in, and came to Mitylene. 15 And we sailed thence, 
and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day 
we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next 
day we came to Miletus. 16 For Paul had determined to sail 
by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for 
he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day 
of Pentecost. 



d. The Meeting with the Ephesian Elders 

17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders 

of the church. 18 And when they were come to him, he said 

unto them : 

* * * 

"You know from the first day that I came into 
Asia, after what manner I have been with you at 
all seasons, 19 serving the Lord with all humil- 
ity of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, 
which befel me by the lying in wait of the Jews: 
20 and how I kept back nothing that was profitable 
unto you, but have showed you, and have taught 
you publicly, and from house to house, 21 tes- 
tifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, 
repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord 
Jesus Christ. 

Chapter 20:7-11 



320 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

22 "And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit 
unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall 
befall me there: 23 save that the Holy Spirit 
witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and 
afflictions abide me. 24 But none of these things 
move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, 
so that I might finish my course with joy, and the 
ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, 
to testify the gospel of the grace of God. 

* 

25 "And now, behold, I know that you all, among 
whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, 
shall see my face no more. 26 Wherefore I take 
you to record this day that I am pure from the 
blood of all men. 27 For I have not shunned to de- 
clare unto you all the counsel of God. 

* 

28 "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and 
to all the flock, over which the Holy Spirit hath 
made you overseers, to feed the church of God, 
which he hath purchased with his own blood. 29 
For I know this, that after my departing shall 
grievous wolves enter 1 in among you, not sparing 
the flock. 30 Also of your own selves shall men 
arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away 
disciples after them. 31 Therefore watch, and 
remember, that by the space of three years I ceased 
not to warn every one night and day with tears. 

* 

32 "And now, brethren, I commend you to God, 

and to the word of his grace, which is able to build 

you up, and to give you an inheritance among all 

them that are sanctified. 

* 

33 "I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, 
or apparel. 34 Yea, you yourselves know, that 
these hands have ministered unto my necessities, 
and to them that were with me. 35 I have shown 
you all things, how that so laboring you ought to 
support the weak, and to remember the words of 
the Lord Jesus, how he said, 'It is more blessed 
to give than to receive.' " 

* 

36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed 
with them all. 37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's 

Chapter 20:22-37 



20:38 The Acts of the Apostles 321 

neck, and kissed him, 38 sorrowing most of all for the words 
which he spoke, that they should see his face no more. And 
they accompanied him to the ship. 



IV. THE JOURNEY FROM MILETUS TO JERUSALEM 
a. The Warning of the Disciples at Tyre 

21:1 And it came to pass, that after we were parted from 
them, and had launched, we came with a straight course unto 
Coos, and the day following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto 
Patara: 2 and finding a ship sailing over unto Phoenicia, we 
went aboard, and set forth. 3 Now when we had discovered 
Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed unto Syria, and 
landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unload her burden. 4 
And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days, who said to 
Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem. 
5 And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and 
went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives 
and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down 
on the shore, and prayed. 6 And when we had taken our leave 
one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again. 



b. The Warning of Agabus at Caesar ea 

7 And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came 
to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them 
one day. 8 And the next day we that were of Paul's company 
departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the 
house 1 of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven: and 
abode with him. 9 And the same man had four daughters, vir- 
gins, who did prophesy. 10 And as we tarried there many days, 
there came down from Judasa a certain prophet, named Ag- 
abus. 11 And when he had come unto us, he took Paul's gir- 
dle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, "Thus saith 
the Holy Spirit, 'So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man 
that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands 
of the Gentiles.' " 12 And when we had heard these things 
both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to 
Jerusalem. 13 Then Paul answered, "What mean you, to weep 
and to break my heart ? for I am ready not to be bound only, but 
also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." 14 
And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, "The 
will of the Lord be done." 



Acts 8:40. 

Chapter 20:38-21:14 



322 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

c. The Arrival of Paul at Jerusalem 

15 And after those days we took up our carriages, and went 
up to Jerusalem. 16 And there went with us also certain of 
the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason 
of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge. 



§2. THE PERSECUTION OF PAUL BY THE JEWS 

I. THE REPORT OF PAUL TO THE CHURCH 

The Counsel of the Elders 

17 And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren re- 
ceived us gladly. 18 And the day following Paul went in with 
us unto James; and all the elders were present. 19 And when 
he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God 
had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry. 20 And when 
they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, "Thou 
seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are that be- 
lieve; and they are all zealous for the law; 21 and they are in- 
formed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews who are among 
the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to 
circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs. 
22 What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: 
for they will hear that thou art come. 23 Do therefore this that 
we say to thee: We have four men who have a vow on them; 
24 them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges 
with them, that they may shave their heads; and all may know 
that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, 
are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keep- 
est the law. 25 As touching the Gentiles who believe, we have 
written 1 and concluded that they observe no such things, save 
only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and 
from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication." 
26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself 
with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment 
of the days of purification, until an offering should be made for 
.every one of them. 



II. THE SEIZURE OF PAUL IN THE TEMPLE 
The Rescue of Paul by the Romans 

27 And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews that 
were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all 
the people, and laid hands on him, 28 crying out, "Men of Is- 

1 This letter is found in Acts 15:23-29. 

Chapter 21:15-28 



21:29 The Acts of the Apostles 323 

rael, help: this is the man that teacheth all men every where 
against the people, and the law, and this place; and further 
brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this 
holy place." 29 (For they had seen before with him in the 
city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul 
had brought into the temple). 30 And all the city was moved, 
and the people ran together: and they took Paul, and drew him 
out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut. 31 And 
as they were about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain 
of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar; 32 who im- 
mediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them : 
and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left 
beating of Paul. 33 Then the chief captain came near, and took 
him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains ; and de- 
manded who he was, and what he had done. 34 And some cried 
one thing, and some another, among the multitude: and when 
he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded 
him to be carried into the castle. 35 And when he came upon 
the stairs, so it was that he was borned by the soldiers for the 
violence of the people. 36 For the multitude of the people fol- 
lowed after, crying, "Away with him!" 



IH. THE ADDRESS OF PAUL FROM THE CASTLE STEPS 
a. The Persecution, Conversion and Ministry of Paul 

37 And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the 

chief captain, "May I speak unto thee?" Who said, "Canst 

thou speak Greek? 38 Art not thou that Egyptian, who before 

these days made an uproar, and led out into the wilderness four 

thousand men that were murderers?" 39 But Paul said, "I 

am a man who am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of 

no mean city: And, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the 

people." 40 and when he had given him license, Paul stood 

on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And 

when there was made a great silence, he spoke unto them in the 

Hebrew tongue, saying: 

* * * 

22:1 "Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my 
defence which I make now unto you : 2 [And when 
they heard that he spoke in the Hebrew tongue to 
them, they kept the more silence : and he saith] : 

* 

3 "I verily am a man who am a Jew, born in 
Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this 
city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according 

Chapter 21:29-22:3 



324 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and 
was zealous toward God, as you all are this day. 4 
For I persecuted this way unto death, binding and de- 
livering into prisons both men and women. 5 As 
also the high priests doth bear me witness, and all 
the estate of the elders; from whom also I received 
letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, 
to bring them that were there bound unto Jerusalem 
to be punished. 

6 "And it came to pass, that, as I made my 
journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus, about 
noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great 
light round about me. 7 And I fell unto the 
ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, 'Saul, 
Saul, why persecutest thou me?' 8 And I an- 
swered, 'Who art thou, Lord?' And he said unto 
me, 'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou perse- 
cutest.' 9 And they that were with me saw in- 
deed the light, and were afraid; but they heard 
not the voice of him that spoke to me. 10 And 
I said, 'What shall I do, Lord?' And the Lord said 
unto me, 'Arise, and go into Damascus; and there 
it shall be told thee of all things that are appointed 
for thee to do.' 11 And when I could not see for the 
glory of that light, being led by the hand of them 
that were with me, I came into Damascus. 

* 

12 "And one Ananias, a devout man according to 
the law, having a good report of all the Jews who 
dwelt there, 13 came unto me, and stood, and 
said unto me, 'Brother Saul, receive thy sight.' 
And the same hour I looked upon him. 14 And he 
said, 'The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, 
that thou shouldest know his will, and see that 
Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. 
15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what 
thou hast seen and heard. 16 And now why tarriest 
thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy 
sins, calling on the name of the Lord.' 

* 

17 "And it came to pass, that, when I had come 
again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the 
temple, I was in a trance; 18 and saw him saying 
unto me, 'Make haste, and get thee quickly out 
of Jerusalem : for they will not receive thy testimony 

Chapter 22:4-18 



22:20 The Acts of the Apostles 325 

concerning me.' And I said, 'Lord, they know that I 

imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that 

believed on thee: 20 and when the blood of thy 

martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, 

and consenting unto his death, and kept the 

raiment of them that slew him.' 21 And he said 

unto me, 'Depart: for I will send thee far hence 

unto the Gentiles.' " 

* 

22 And they gave him audience unto his word, and then lifted 
up their voices, and said, "Away with such a fellow from the 
earth: for it is not fit that he should live." 



b. The Roman Citizenship of Paul 

23 And as they cried out, and cast of! their clothes, and threw 
dust into the air, 24 the chief captain commanded him to be 
brought into the castle, and bade that he should be examined 
by scourging ; that he might know wherefore they cried so against 
him. 25 And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto 
the centurion that stood by, "Is it lawful for you to scourge a 
man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?" 1 26 When the cen- 
turion heard that, he went and told the chief captain, saying, 
"Take heed what thou doest: for this man is a Roman." 27 
Then the chief captain came, and said unto him, "Tell me, art 
thou a Roman?" He said, "Yea." 28 And the chief captain an- 
swered, "With a great sum obtained I this freedom." And Paul 
said, "But I was free born." 29 Then straightway they de- 
parted from him that should have examined him : and the chief 
captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a Roman, and 
because he had bound him. 



IV. THE HEARING BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN 
The Second Rescue by the Romans 

30 On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty 
wherefore he was accused by the Jews, he loosed him from his 
bands, and commanded the chief priests and all their council 
to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them. 
23:1 And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, "Men and 
brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until 
this day." 2 And the high priest Ananias commanded them 
that stood by him to smite him on the mouth. 3 Then said 
Paul unto him, "God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sit- 



1 This was forbidden by the Lex Porcia. 

Chapter 22:20-23:3 



326 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI I 

test thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be 
smitten contrary to the law?" 4 And they that stood by said, 
"Revilest thou God's high priest?" 5 Then said Paul, "I wist 
not, brethren, that he was the high priest : for it is written, 'Thou 
shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.'" 1 6 But 
when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the 
other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, "Men and brethren, 
I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: for the hope and resur- 
rection of the dead I am called in question." 7 And when he 
had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and 
the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided. 8 For the Sad- 
ducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: 
but the Pharisees confess both. 9 And there arose a great cry: 
and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, 
saying, "We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel 
hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God." 10 And 
when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest 
Paul should have been pulled in pieces by them, commanded 
the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among 
them, and to bring him into the castle. 



§3. THE TRANSFER OF PAUL TO C-5ESAREA 

I. THE VISION OF PAUL IN THE CASTLE 

The Witness to be Borne at Rome 

11 And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, 
"Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jeru- 
salem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome." 



H. THE TRANSFER TO THE ROMAN GOVERNOR 
a. The Conspiracy of the Jews Against Paxil 

12 And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, 
and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would 
neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. 13 And there 
were more than forty that made this conspiracy. 14 And they 
came to the chief priests and elders, and said, "We have bound 
ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until 
we have slain Paul. 15 Now therefore do ye with the council 
signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you 
to-morrow, as though you would inquire something more per- 
fectly concerning him; and we, before he comes near, are ready 
to kill him." 16 And when Paul's sister's son heard of their 
lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul. 

« Ex. 22 :28. Chapter 23:4-16 



23:17 The Acts of the Apostles 327 

17 Then Paul called one of the centurions unto him, and said, 
"Bring this young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a 
certain thing to tell him." 18 So he took him, and brought him 
to the chief captain, and said, "Paul 1 the prisoner called me unto 
him, and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee, who hath 
something to say unto thee." 19 Then the chief captain took 
him by the hand, and went with him aside privately, and asked 
him, "What is it that thou hast to say to me?" 20 And he said, 
"The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldst bring 
down Paul to-morrow into the council, as though they would 
inquire somewhat of him more perfectly. 21 But do not thou 
yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them more than 
forty men, who have bound themselves with an oath, that they 
will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are 
they ready, looking for a promise from thee." 22 So the chief 
captain then let the young man depart, and charged him, "See 
that thou tell no man that thou hast shown these things to me." 

23 And he called unto him two centurions, saying, "Make ready 
two hundred soldiers to go to Cassarea, and horsemen threescore 
and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night; 

24 and provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring 
him safe unto Felix the governor." 



b. The Letter to Felix, the Governor of Judaea 

25 And he wrote a letter after this manner: 

* * * 

26 "Claudius Lysias, unto the most excellent 
governor Felix, sendeth greeting: 

27 "This man was taken of the Jews, and should 
have been killed of them: then came I with an 
army, and rescued him, having understood that 
he was a Roman. 28 And when I would have known 
the cause wherefore they accused him, I brought 
him forth unto their council: 29 whom I per- 
ceived to be accused of questions of their law, 
but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of 
death or of bonds. 30 And when it was told me 
how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent 
straightway to thee, and gave commandment to 
his accusers also to say before thee what they had 
against him. 

"Farewell." 



1 Paul resided at Jerusalem during student days in the School of Gamaliel, 
some say from his thirteenth to his thirtieth year. Sabatier thinks he must 
have seen Jesus. 

Chapter 23:17-30 



328 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

c. The Removal of Paul to Caesarea 

31 Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, 
and brought him by night to Antipatris. 32 On the mor- 
row they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the 
castle: 33 who, when they came to Caesarea, and delivered 
the epistle to the governor, presented Paul also before him. 34 
And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what 
province he was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia, 
35 "I will hear thee," said he, "when thy accusers are also 
come." And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment 
hall. 



HI. THE TRIAL BEFORE GOVERNOR FELIX 
a. The Accusation of Tertullus Against Paul 

24:1 And after five days Ananias the high priest descended 
with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who 
informed the governor against Paul. 2 And when he was called 
forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying : 

* * * 

"Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, 
and that very worthy deeds are done unto this na- 
tion by thy providence, 3 we accept it always, and 
in all places, most noble Felix, with all thank- 
fulness. 4 Notwithstanding, that I be not further 
tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldst 
hear us of thy clemency a few words. 5 For we have 
found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of 
sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, 
and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes : 6 who 
also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom 
we took, and would have judged him according to 
our law. 7 But the chief captain Lysias came 
upon us, and with great violence took him away 
out of our hands, 8 commanding his accusers to 
come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself 
mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof 
we accuse him." 

9 And the Jews also assented, saying that these things were so. 



b. The Defense of Paul Before the Governor 

10 Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto 
him to speak, answered: 

Chapter 23:31-24:10 



24:11 The Acts of the Apostles 329 

* * * 

"Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been for 
many years a judge unto this nation, I do the 
more cheerfully answer for myself: 11 because 
that thou may est understand, that there are yet 
but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to 
worship. 12 And they neither found me in the 
temple disputing with any man, neither raising 
up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in 
the city: 13 neither can they prove the things 
whereof they accuse me. 

* 

14 "But this I confess unto thee, that after the 
way which they call heresy, so worship I the God 
of my fathers, believing all things that are written 
in the law and in the prophets: 15 and have hope 
toward God, which they themselves also allow, 
that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both 
of the just and unjust. 16 And herein do I exer- 
cise myself, to have always a conscience void of 
offence toward God, and toward men. 

* 

17 "Now after many years I came to bring alms 
to my nation, and offerings. 18 Whereupon cer- 
tain Jews found me purified in the temple, neither 
with multitude, nor with tumult; 19 who ought to 
have been here before thee, and object, if they had 
aught against me. 30 Or else let them here say, if 
they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood 
before the council, 21 except it be for this one 
voice, that I cried standing among them, 'Touching 
the resurrection of the dead I am called in question 
by you this day.' " 

c. The Decision of the Governor is Deferred 

22 And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect 
knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said, "When Ly- 
sias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost 
of your matter." 23 And he commanded a centurion to keep 
Paul, and to let him have liberty, and that he should forbid 
none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him. 



d. The Ministry to Felix and Drusilla 

24 But after certain days, when Felix came with his wife 
Drusilla, who was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him con- 

Chapter 24:11-24 



330 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

cerning the faith in Christ . 25 And as he reasoned of righteousness , 
temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, 
"Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I 
will call for thee." 26 He hoped also that money should have 
been given him by Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he 
sent for him the oftener, and communed with him. 



IV. THE APPEAL OF PAUL TO CJESAR 
a. The Succession of Porcius Festus as Governor 

27 But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: 
and Felix, willing to show the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound. 
25 : 1 Now when Festus was come into the province, after three 
days he ascended from Caesarea to Jerusalem. 2 Then the 
high priest and the chief of the Jews informed him against Paul, 
and besought him, 3 and desired favour against him, that he 
would send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way to kill 
him. 4 But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at 
Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither. 5 
"Let them therefore," said he, "that among you are able, go 
down with me, and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness 
in him." 

b. The Appeal of Paul unto Caesar 

6 And when he had tarried among them more than ten days, 
he went down unto Caesarea; and the next day sitting on the 
judgment seat commanded Paul to be brought. 7 And when he 
had come, the Jews who came down from Jerusalem stood round 
about, and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul, 
which they could not prove. 8 While he answered for himself, 
"Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, 
nor yet against Caesar, have I offended any thing at all." 9 
But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, 
and said, "Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged 
of these things before me?" 10 Then said Paul, "I stand at 
Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews 
have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest. 11 For if 
I be an offender or have committed anything worthy of death, 
I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof 
they accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto 
Caesar." 1 12 Then Festus, when he had conferred with the 
council, answered, "Hast thou appealed unto Caesar? unto Caesar 
shalt thou go." 

1 Nero, twenty-one years of age, is Emperor of Rome. Seneca, Prime 
Minister, and Bhurrus, Prefect of the Praetorium, gave to the first quin- 
quennium of Nero — A. D. 54-59 — great celebrity. 

Chapter 24:25-25:12 



25:13 The Acts of the Apostles 331 

c. The Hearing before King Agrippa II 

13 And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came 
unto Cassarea to salute Festus. 14 And when they had been 
there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king, say- 
ing, "There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix: 15 about 
whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders 
of the Jews informed me, desiring to have judgment against him. 
16 To whom I answered, 'It is not the manner of the Romans 
to deliver any man to die, before that he that is accused have 
the accusers face to face, and have license to answer for himself 
concerning the crime laid against him. 17 Therefore, when 
they were come hither, without any delay on the morrow I sat 
on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought 
forth. 18 Against whom when the accusers stood up, they 
brought no accusation of such things as I supposed: 19 but 
had certain questions against him of their own superstition, 
and of one Jesus, who was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive. 
20 And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked 
him whether he would go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged 
of these matters. 21 But when Paul appealed to be reserved 
unto the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept 
till I might send him to Caesar." 22 Then Agrippa said unto 
Festus, "I would also hear the man myself." "Tomorrow," said 
he, "thou shalt hear him." 



d. The Defense of Paul before the King 

23 And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, 
with great pomp, and had entered into the place of hearing, 
with the chief captains, and principal men of the city, at Festus' 
commandment Paul was brought forth. 24 And Festus said, 
"King Agrippa, and all men who are present here with us, you 
see this man, about whom all the multitude of the Jews have 
dealt with me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying that he 
ought not to live any longer. 25 But when I found that he 
had committed nothing worthy of death, and that he himself 
hath appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him. 
26 Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my Lord. 
Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially 
before thee, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I 
might have somewhat to write. 27 For it seemeth to me unrea- 
sonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes 
laid against him." 26:1 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, "Thou 
art permitted to speak for thyself." Then Paul stretched forth 
the hand, and answered for himself: 

Chapter 25:13-26:1 



332 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 



2 "I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because 
I shall answer for myself this day before thee 
touching all the things whereof I am accused of 
the Jews: 3 Especially because I know thee to be 
expert in all customs and questions that are among the 
Jews : wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently. 

* 

4 "My manner of life from my youth, that was 
at the first among my own nation at Jerusalem, 
know all the Jews; 5 who knew me from the be- 
ginning, if they would testify, that after the most 
straightest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. 
6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of 
the promise made of God unto our fathers : 7 unto 
which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving 
God day and night, hope to come. For which hope's 
sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews. 

* 

8 "Why should it be thought a thing incredible 
with you, that God should raise the dead? 9 I 
verily thought with myself, that I ought to do 
many things contrary to the name of Jesus of 
Nazareth. 10 Which thing I also did in Jeru- 
salem: and many of the saints did I shut up in 
prison, having received authority from the chief 
priests; and when they were put to death I gave 
my voice against them. 11 And I punished them 
oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to 
blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against 
them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities. 

* 

12 "Whereupon as I journeyed to Damascus with 
authority and commission from the chief priests, 
13 at midday, O king, I saw in the way a light 
from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, 
shining round about me and them that journeyed 
with me. 14 And when we were all fallen to the 
earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and say- 
ing in the Hebrew tongue, 'Saul, Saul, why per- 
secutest thou me ? it is hard for thee to kick against 
the pricks.' 15 And I said, 'Who art thou, Lord?' 
And he said, 'I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. 

* 

16 "But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I 
have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make 

Chapter 26:2-16 



26:17 The Acts of the Apostles 333 

thee a minister and a witness both of these things 
that thou hast seen, and of those things in which I 
will appear unto thee; 17 delivering thee from the 
people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I 
send thee, 18 to open their eyes, and to turn them 
from darkness to light, and from the power of 
Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness 
of sins, and an inheritance among them that are sanc- 
tified by faith that is in me.' 

* 

19 "Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not dis- 
obedient unto the heavenly vision; 20 but showed 
first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, 
and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then 
to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn 
to God, and do works meet for repentance. 

* 

21 'Tor these causes the Jews caught me in the 
temple, and went about to kill me. 22 Having 
therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto 
this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying 
no other things than those that the prophets and 
Moses did say should come : 23 that Christ should 
suffer, and that he should be the first that should 
rise from the dead, and should show light unto the 
people, and to the Gentiles." 

* 

24 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud 
voice, "Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make 
thee mad." 25 But he said, "I am not mad, most noble Festus: 
but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. 26 For the king 
knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I 
am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; 
for this thing was not done in a corner." 27 "King Agrippa, 
believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest." 28 
Then Agrippa said unto Paul, "Almost thou persuadest me to 
be a Christian." 29 And Paul said, "I would to God, that not 
only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, 
and altogether such as I am, except these bonds." 30 And when 
he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and 
Bernice, and they that sat with them: 31 and when they were 
gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying, "This man 
doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds." 32 Then said 
Agrippa unto Festus, "This man might have been set at liberty, 
if he had not appealed unto Caesar." 

Chapter 26:17-32 



334 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

§4. THE TRANSFER OF PAUL TO ROME 
I. THE VOYAGE VIA ASIA TO CRETE 
The Arrival at the Fair Havens 

27:1 And when it was determined that we should sail unto 
Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one 
named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band. 2 And entering 
into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by 
the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessa- 
lonica, being with us. 3 And the next day we touched at Sidon. 
And Julius courteously treated Paul, and gave him liberty to go 
unto his friends and refresh himself. 4 And when we had 
launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds 
were contrary. 5 And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia 
and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia. 6 And there 
the centurion found a ship of Alexandria, sailing unto Italy; 
and he put us therein. 7 And when we had sailed slowly many 
days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not 
suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone: 8 
and, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called the 
Fair Havens ; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea. 



II. THE SHIPWRECK ON THE ISLAND OF MELITA 
a. The Ministry of Paul to the Company 

9 Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now 
dangerous because the Fast was now already past, Paul ad- 
monished them, 10 and said unto them, "Sirs, I perceive that 
this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only to the 
lading and the ship, but also to our lives." 11 Nevertheless the 
centurion believed the master and owner of the ship, more than 
those things that were spoken by Paul. 12 And because the 
Haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised 
to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to 
Phcenix, and there to winter; which is a haven of Crete, and lieth 
toward the southwest and northwest. 13 And when the south 
wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, 
loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete. 14 And not long after 
there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon. 
15 And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into 
the wind, we let her drive. 16 And running under a certain 
island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the 
boat: 17 which when they had taken up, they used helps, 
undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the 
quicksands, struck sail, and so were driven. 18 And we being 

Chapter 27:1-18 



27:19 The Acts of the Apostles 335 

exceedingly tossed with a temptest, the next day they lightened 
the ship; 19 and the third day we cast out with our own hands 
the tackling of the ship. 20 And when neither sun nor stars in 
many days appeared, and no small temptest lay on us, all hope 
that we should be saved was then taken away. 21 But after 
long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, 
"Sirs, you should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed 
from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. 22 But 
now I exhort you to be of good cheer : for there shall be no loss of 
any mans life among you, but of the ship. 23 For there stood by 
me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, 
24 saying, 'Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: 
and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.' 25 
Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer; for I believe God, that it shall 
be even as it was told me. 26 Howbeit we must be cast upon a 
certain island. 

b. The Shipwreck on the Island of Melita 

27 But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven 
up and down in Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that 
they drew near to some country; 28 and sounded and found it 
twenty fathoms; and when they had gone a little further, they 
sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms. 29 Then fearing 
lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four anchors 
out of the stern, and wished for the day. 

* 

30 And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, 
when they had let down the boat into the sea, under colour as 
though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship, 31 
Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, "Except these abide 
in the ship, you cannot be saved." 32 Then the soldiers cut 
off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off. 

* 

33 And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them 
all to take meat, saying, "This day is the fourteenth day that 
you have tarried and continued fasting, having taken nothing. 
34 Wherefore I pray you to take some meat; for this is for your 
health: for there shall not a hair fall from the head of any of 
you." 35 And when he had thus spoken, he took bread, and 
gave thanks to God in the presence of them all : and when he had 
broken it, he began to eat. 36 Then were they all of good cheer, 
and they also took some meat. 37 And we were in all in the 
ship, two hundred three score and sixteen souls. 

* 

38 And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, 
and cast out the wheat into the sea. 39 And when it was day, 

Chapter 27:19-39 



336 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

they knew not the land: but they discovered a certain creek 
with a shore, into which they were minded, if it were possible, 
to thrust in the ship. 40 And when they had taken up the an- 
chors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the 
rudder bands, and hoisted up the mainsail to the wind, and 
made toward the shore. 41 And falling into a place where 
two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the fore part stuck 
fast, and remained unmovable, but the hinder part was broken 
up by the violence of the waves. 

* 

42 And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any 
of them should swim out, and escape. 43 But the centurion, 
willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and com- 
manded that they that could swim should cast themselves first 
into the sea, and get to land: 44 and the rest, some on boards, 
and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, 
that they escaped all safe to land. 



c. The Reception by the Islanders 

28:1 And when they were escaped, then they knew that the 
island was called Melita. 2 And the barbarous people showed us 
no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every 
one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold. 3 And 
when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the 
fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand. 
4 And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his 
hand, they said among themselves, "No doubt this man is a mur- 
derer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suf- 
fereth not to live." 5 And he shook off the beast into the fire, 
and felt no harm. 6 Howbeit they looked when he should have 
swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked 
a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their 
minds, and said that he was a god. 



d. The Lodging and Ministry with Publius 

7 In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man 
of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and 
lodged us three days courteously. 8 And it came to pass, that 
the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: 
to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, 
and healed him. 9 So when this was done, others also, who had 
diseases in the island, came, and were healed: 10 who also 
honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they 
loaded us with such things as were necessary. 

Chapter 27:40-28:10 



28:11 The Acts of the Apostles 337 

m. THE ARRIVAL OF PAUL AT ROME » 
The Meeting with the Disciples 

11 And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexan- 
dria, that had wintered in the island, whose sign was ''Castor and 
Pollux." 12 And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three 
days. 13 And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to 
Rhegium: and after one day the south wind blew, and we came 
the next day to Puteoli, 14 where we found brethren, and were 
desired to tarry with them seven days: and so we went toward 
Rome. 15 And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, 
they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and the Three Tav- 
erns: whom, when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage. 



IV. THE PRISON MINISTRY OF PAUL AT ROME * 
a. The Private Residence Under Guard 

16 And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the 
prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to 
dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him. 



b. The Interview with the Jews 

17 And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called 
the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come to- 
gether, he said unto them, "Men and brethren, though I have 
committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, 
yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of 
the Romans: 18 who, when they had examined me, would 
have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me. 19 
But when the Jews spoke against it, I was constrained to appeal 
unto Csesar; not that I had aught to accuse my nation of. 20 
For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to 
speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound 
with this chain." 21 And they said unto him, "We neither re- 
ceived letters from Judaea concerning thee, neither any of the 
brethren that came showed or spoke any harm of thee. 22 But 
we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning 
this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against." 



c. The Salvation for the Gentiles 

23 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many 
to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the 

1 Paul wrote Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon and Philippians while in 
Rome at this time. 

Chapter 28:11-23 



338 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of 
the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till even- 
ing. 24 And some believed the things that were spoken, and 
some believed not. 25 And when they agreed not among them- 
selves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, 
"Well spoke the Holy Spirit by Isaiah the prophet unto our 

fathers, 26 saying: 

* * * 

'Go unto this people, and say, 
Hearing you shall hear, and shall not under- 
stand ; 
And seeing you shall see, and not perceive; 
27 For the heart of this people is waxed gross, 
And their ears are dull of hearing, 
And their eyes have they closed; 
Lest they should see with their eyes, 
And hear with their ears, 
And understand with their heart, 
And should be converted, 

And I should heal them.' [Isa. 6:9 f.] 

* 

28 Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is 
sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it." 29 And 
when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great 
reasoning among themselves. 



5Ehr (Elttsfng Summary 

30 And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and 
received all that came in unto him, 31 preaching the kingdom of 
God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus 
Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him. 

* * * 



The Epistle to the Romans 



Part <g)n? 
The Introduction 1 



THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST FOR THE ROMANS 

THE SALUTATION AND THANKSGIVING 

a. The Salutation 

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated 
unto the gospel 2 of God, 2 which he had promised before by 
his prophets in the holy scriptures, 3 concerning his Son Jesus 
Christ our Lord, who was made of the seed of David, according 
to the flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power, accord- 
ing to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: 5 
by whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience 
to the faith among all nations for his name: 6 among whom 
are you also the called of Jesus Christ : 7 to all that are in Rome, 
beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you, and peace, 
from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. 



b. The Thanksgiving 

8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, 
that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. 9 
For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel 
of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always 
in my prayers; 10 making request, if by any means now at 
length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to 
come unto you. 11 For I long to see you, 3 that I may impart 
unto you some spiritual gift, to the end that you may be estab- 
lished; 12 that is, that I may be comforted together with you 
by the mutual faith both of you and me. 13 Now I would not 

1 Written from Corinth, A. D. 57. 2 Greek — good tidings. 

8 The church in Rome was not founded by Paul. The Roman historian, 
Tacitus, significantly says of the origin of Christianity in Rome: "Christus, 
the founder of that name, was put to death as a criminal by Pontius Pilate, 
procurator of Judaea, in the reign of Tiberias, but the pernicious superstition, 
repressed for a time, broke out again, not only through Judaea, where the 
mischief originated, but through the city of Rome also, whither all things 
horrible and disgraceful flow, from all quarters as to a common receptacle, 
and where they are encouraged." The Annals, xv. 44. 

341 Chapter 1:1-13 



342 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come 
unto you, but was hindered hitherto, that I might have some 
fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles. 14 For I 
am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the barbarians; both to 
the wise, and to the unwise. 15 So, as much as in me is, I am 
ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. 

Chapter 1:14-15 



Part $too 
The Instruction for the Romans 



I. THE THEOLOGY OF SALVATION :f JUSTIFICATION 

BY FAITH 

THE DOCTRINAL PREAMBLE 

The Power of God unto Salvation to the Believer 

For I am not ashamed 1 of the gospel of Christ; for it is the 
power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the 
Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteous- 
ness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, 

* * * 

"The just shall live by faith/' 2 



§1. THE REVELATION OF THE WRATH OF GOD 

I. THE CONDEMNATION OF THE GENTILES 

a. The Wrath of God Against the Gentiles 

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all 
ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in 
unrighteousness; 19 because that which may be known of God 
is manifest in them; for God hath shown it unto them. 20 For 
the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are 
clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, 
even his eternal power and godhead; so that they are without 
excuse; 21 because that, when they knew God, they glorified 
him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their 
imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Pro- 
fessing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed 
the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to cor- 
ruptible men, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping 
things. 24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness 
through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own 



1 Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. Is. 28:16. 
J Hab. 2:4. 



343 Chapter 1:16-24 



344 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

bodies among themselves: 25 who changed the truth of God 
into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than 
the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 



b. The Moral Degradation of the Gentiles 

26 For this cause God gave them up to vile affections; for 
even their women did change the natural use into that which is 
against nature: 27 and likewise also the men, leaving the 
natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; 
men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in 
themselves that recompense of their error, which was meet. 28 
And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, 
God gave them over to a reprobate 1 mind, to do those things 
that are not convenient; 29 being filled with all unrighteous- 
ness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full 
of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whispers, 29 back- 
biters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of 
evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 without understanding, 
covenant breakers, without natural affection, 2 implacable, un- 
merciful; 32 who knowing the judgment of God, that they 
that commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the 
same, but have pleasure in them that do them. 



II. THE CONDEMNATION OF THE JEWS 
a. The Wrath of God Against the Jews 

2:1 Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou 
art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou con- 
demnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. 
2 But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to 
truth against them that commit such things. 3 And thinkest 
thou this, O man, that judgest them that do such things, and 
doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? 
4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance 
and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth 
thee to repentance? 5 But after thy hardness and impenitent 
heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath 
and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; 6 who will 
render unto every man according to his deeds: 7 to them who 
by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour 
and immortality, eternal life; 8 but unto them that are con- 
tentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, 
indignation and wrath, 9 tribulation and anguish, upon every 

1 Or, a mind void of judgment. 2 Or, unsociable. 

Chapter 1:25-2:9 



2:10 The Epistle to the Romans 345 

soul of man that do evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; 
10 but glory, honour and peace, to every man that worketh 
good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile; 11 for there is 
no respect of persons with God. 12 For as many as have sinned 
without law shall also perish without law; and as many as have 
sinned in the law shall be judged by the law, 13 [For not the 
hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law 
shall be justified. 14 For when the Gentiles, who have not the 
law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having 
not the law are a law unto themselves; 15 who show the work 
of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing 
witness, and their thoughts the meanwhile accusing or else excusing 
one another:] 16 in the day when God shall judge the secrets of 
men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel. 



b. The Moral Degradation of the Jew 

17 Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and 
makest thy boast of God, 18 and knowest his will, and appro vest 
the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the 
law; 19 and art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the 
blind, a light to them that are in darkness, 20 an instructor 
of the foolish, a teacher of babes, who have the form of knowl- 
edge and of the truth in the law. 21 Thou therefore that teachest 
another, teachest thou not thyself? Thou that preaches t a man 
should not steal, dost thou steal? 22 Thou that say est a man 
should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? Thou 
that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege? 23 Thou 
that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law 
dishonourest thou God? 24 For the name of God is blasphemed 
among the Gentiles through you, as it is written. 25 For cir- 
cumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a 
breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. 

26 Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the 
law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for righteousness? 

27 And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil 
the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost 
trangress the law? 28 For he is not a Jew, who is one outwardly; 
neither is that circumcision which is in the flesh; 29 but he is 
a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, 
in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, 
but of God. 

c. The True Position of the Jew 

3:1 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is 
there of circumcision? 2 Much every way: chiefly, because 

Chapter 2:10-3:2 



346 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

that unto them were committed the oracles of God. 3 For 
what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith 
of God without effect? 4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, 
but every man a liar; as it is written: 

* * * 

"That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, 
And mightest overcome when thou art judged." 1 

* 

5 But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, 
what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? 
[I speak as a man]. 6 God forbid: for then how shall God judge 
the world? 7 For if the truth of God hath more abounded 
through my lie unto his glory, why yet am I also judged as a sinner? 
8 And not rather [as we be slanderously reported, and as some 
affirm that we say], "Let us do evil, that good may come?" 
whose damnation is just. 



III. THE CONDEMNATION OF ALL MEN 
The Wrath of God Against All 

9 What then? are we better than theyf No, in no wise: for 
we have before proved 2 both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all 
under sin; 10 as it is written: 

"There is none righteous, no, not one: 

11 There is none that understandeth, 
There is none that seeketh after God, 

12 They are all gone out of the way, 
They are together become unprofitable; 
There is none that doeth good, no, not one. * 

13 Their throat is an open sepulchre: 4 
With their tongues they have used deceit ; 
The poison of asps is under their lips : 6 

14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness : • 

15 Their feet are swift to shed blood: 

16 Destruction and misery are in their ways : 

17 And the way of peace have they not known: 7 

18 There is no fear of God before their eyes." 8 

* 

19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith 
to them that are under the law : that every mouth may be stopped, 
and all the world may become guilty before God. 20 There- 

1 Ps. 51:4. 2 Romans 1:18. 8 Ps. 14:1. 4 Ps. 5:9. 

6 Ps. 140:3. 6 Ps. 10:7. 7 Isa. 59:7f. 8 Ps. 36:1. 

Chapter 3:3-20 



3:21 The Epistle to the Romans 347 

fore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in 
his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. 



§2. THE REVELATION OF THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD 

I. THE GREAT FACT OF HUMAN REDEMPTION 

a. The Grace of God for Sinful Man 

21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is mani- 
fested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 even 
the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto 
all and upon all that believe: for there is no difference: 23 for 
all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 being 
justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in 
Christ Jesus; 25 whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation 
through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the 
remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 
26Jto declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might 
be; just: and the justifier of him that believeth in Jesus. 



b. The Justification of Man by Faith 

27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? 
Of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. 28 Therefore we 
conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of 
the law. 29 Is he the God of the Jews only? Is he not also 
of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: 30 seeing it is one 
God, who shall justify the circumcision by faith, and the uncir- 
cumcision through faith. 



H. THE COVENANT WITH ABRAHAM 
a. The Foundation of Faith 

31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: 
yea, we establish the law. 4:1 What shall we say then that 
Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? 
2 For if Abraham was justified by works, he hath whereof to 
glory; but not before God. 3 For what saith the scripture? 
"Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for 
righteousness." 1 4 Now to him that worketh is the reward 
not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that worketh 
not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith 

1 Gen. 15:6. 

Chzpter 3:21-4:5 



348 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

is counted for righteousness. 6 Even as David also described 
the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputed righteous- 
ness without works, 7 saying: 

* * * 

"Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, 
And whose sins are covered. 
8 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not 
impute sin." 1 

9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or 
upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reck- 
oned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reck- 
oned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not 
in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 And he received 
the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith 
which he had yet being uncircumcised : that he might be the father 
of them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that 
righteousness might be imputed unto them also; 12 and the 
father of circumcision to them that are not of the circumcision 
only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father 
Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. 



b. The Giving of the Promise 

13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, 
was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through 
the righteousness of faith. 14 For if they that are of the law 
be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: 
15 because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is 
no transgression. 16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be 
by grace; to the end that the promise might be sure to all the 
seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which 
is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all 17 [As 
it is written, 2 "I have made thee a father of many nations"], 
before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the 
dead, and calleth those things that are not as though they were. 



c. The Faith of Abraham in God 

18 Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become 
the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, 
"So shall thy seed be." 3 19 And being not weak in faith, he 
considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an 



1 Ps. 32:lf. 2 Gen. 17:5. 3 Gen. 15:5. 

Chapter 4:6-19 



4:20 The Epistle to the Romans 349 

hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's body: 
20 he staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; 
but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 21 and being 
fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also 
to perform. 22 And therefore it was imputed to him for righteous- 
ness. 23 Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was 
imputed to him; 24 but for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, 
if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead ; 
25 who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for 
our justification. 



IH. THE JUSTIFICATION OF MAN BY FAITH 
The Certainty of the Atonement 

5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with 
God through our Lord Jesus Christ; 2 by whom also we have 
access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice 
in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only so, but we glory 
in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 
4 and patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 and hope 
maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad 
in our hearts by the Holy Spirit which is given unto us. 6 For 
when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for 
the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: 
yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 
8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we 
were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being 
now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through 
him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to 
God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we 
shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy 
in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now 
received the atonement. 



IV. THE MEDIATION OF JESUS CHRIST 
The Grace Abounding Unto All 

12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and 
death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all 
have sinned 13 [For until the law sin was in the world; but 
sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless death 
reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned 
after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure 
of him that was to come. 15 But not as the offence, so also is 
the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, 
much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by 

Chapter 4:20-5:15 



350 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not 
as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was 
by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences 
unto justification. 17 For if by one man's offence death reigned 
by one; much more they that receive abundance of grace and of 
the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ] : 
18 therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all 
men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the 
free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. 19 For as 
by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the 
obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 20 Moreover 
the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where 
sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 that as sin 
hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through 
righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. 



n. THE THEOLOGY OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE: 

SANCTIFICATION > BY THE SPIRIT 

I. THE CHRISTIAN LIFE DEFINED 

a. The Significance of Life and Death in Christ 

6:1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that 
grace may abound? 2 God forbid. How shall we, who are 
dead to sin, live any longer therein? 3 Know you not, that so 
many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized 
into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism 
into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by 
the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness 
of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness 
of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 
6 knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the 
body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not 
serve sin. 7 For he that is dead is freed from sin. 8 Now if 
we be dead with Christ, we believe we shall also live with him: 
9 knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; 
death hath no more dominion over him. 10 For in that he died, 
he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. 
11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto 
sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 12 Let 
not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that you should obey 
it in the lusts thereof. 13 Neither yield ye your members as 
instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves 
unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members 

1 See Sanday and Headlam, Int. Crit. Comm., Romans, ad loc. 

Chapter 5:16-6:13 



6: 14 The Epistle to the Romans 351 

as instruments of righteousness unto God. 14 For sin shall 
not have dominion over you: for you are not under the law, but 
under grace. 



b. The Significance of Sin and Holiness 

15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the 
law, but under grace? God forbid. 16 Know you not, that to 
whom you yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants you 
are whom you obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience 
unto righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that you were 
the servants of sin, but you have obeyed from the heart that form 
of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free 
from sin, you became the servants of righteousness. 19 I speak 
after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: 
for as you have yielded your members servants to uncleanness 
and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members 
servants to righteousness unto holiness. 20 For when you were 
the servants of sin, you were free from righteousness. 21 But 
what fruit had you then in those things whereof you are now 
ashamed? for the end of those things is death. 22 But now 
being made free from sin, and become servants to God, you 
have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. 23 
For the wages of sin is death ; but the gift of God is eternal life 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. 



c. The Significance of Law and Grace 

7:1 Know you not, brethren [for I speak to them that know 
the law], how that the law hath dominion over a man as long 
as he liveth? 2 For the woman that hath an husband is bound 
by the law to her husband so long as he liveth ; but if the husband 
be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. 3 So then 
if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, 
she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, 
she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though 
she be married to another man. 4 Wherefore, my brethren, 
you also have become dead to the law by the body of Christ; 
that you should be married to another, even to him who was 
raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. 
5 For when we were in the flesh, the motions l of sin, which were 
by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto 
death. 6 But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead 

1 Greek: passions. 

Chapter 6:14-7:6 



352 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, 
and not in the oldness of the letter. 



II. THE CHRISTIAN LIFE ANALYZED 
The Nature of the Inner Man 

7 What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. 
Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known 
lust, except the law had said, "Thou shalt not covet." 1 8 But 
sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all 
manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. 9 
For I was alive without the law once: but when the command- 
ment came, sin revived, and I died. 10 And the commandment, 
which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. 11 For 
sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by 
it slew me. 12 Wherefore the law is holy, and the command- 
ment holy, and just, and good. 13 Was then that which is 
good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might 
appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that 
sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. 14 
For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold 
under sin. 15 For that which I do I allow not : for what I would, 
that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. 16 If then I do that 
which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. 17 
Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 
18 For I know that in me [that is, in my flesh], dwelleth no 
good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform 
that which is good I find not. 19 For the good that I would, 
I do not; but the evil that I would not, that I do. 20 Now if 
I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that 
dwelleth in me. 21 I find then a law, that, when I would do 
good, evil is present with me. 22 For I delight in the law of 
God after the inward man: 23 but I see another law in my 
members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me 
into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. 24 O 
wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body 
of this death? 25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with 
the flesh the law of sin. 



HI. THE CHRISTIAN LIFE REALIZED 
a. The Life of the Spirit 

8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them that 
are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the 



Ex. 20:17. 

Chapter 7:7-8:1 



8:2 The Epistle to the Romans 353 

Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath 
made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the 
law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God 
sending his own son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, 
condemned sin in the flesh: 4 that the righteousness of the 
law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but 
after the Spirit. 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind 
the things of the flesh ; but they that are after the Spirit the things 
of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be 
spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal 
mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of 
God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the 
flesh cannot please God. 9 But you are not in the flesh, but 
in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now 
if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. 10 
And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the 
Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of 
him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that 
raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal 
bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. 



b. The Sonship with Christ 

12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to 
live after the flesh. 13 For if you live after the flesh, you shall 
die: but if you through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the 
body, you shall live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit 
of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For you have not received 
the spirit of bondage again to fear; but you have received the 
spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The 
Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the chil- 
dren of God: 17 and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and 
joint -heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we 
may be also glorified together. 



IV. THE CHRISTIAN LIFE GLORIFIED 
a. The Hope of the Christian 

18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are 
not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed 
in us. 19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth 
for the manifestation of the sons of God. 20 For the creature 
was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him 
who hath subjected the same in hope, 21 because the creature 
itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into 

Chapter 8:2-21 



354 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know 
that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together 
until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, who have 
the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within 
ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our 
body. 24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is 
not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? 25 
But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait 
for it. 



b. The Inspiration of the Spirit 

26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we 
know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit 
itself maketh intercession for us with groanings that cannot 
be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth 
what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession 
for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know 
that all things work together for good to them that love God, 
to them that are the called according to his purpose. 29 For 
whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed 
to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among 
many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them 
he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and 
whom he justified, them he also glorified. 



c. The Great Triumph of the Christian 

31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for 
us, who can be against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, 
but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also 
freely give us all things? 33 Who shall lay anything to the 
charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 Who is 
he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that 
is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also 
maketh intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the 
love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or 
famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, 

* * * 

"For thy sake we are killed all the day long; 
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter." 1 
* 

37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through 
him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, 

i Ps. 44:22. 

Chapter 8:22-38 



8:39 The Epistle to the Romans 355 

nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things 
present, nor things to come, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor 
any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love 
of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. 



m. THE THEOLOGY OF HISTORY: THE PURPOSE 

OF GOD THROUGH ISRAEL 

I. THE INTRODUCTION 

The Problem of Israel in History 

9:1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also 
bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, 2 that I have great 
heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. 3 For I could 
wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, 
my kinsmen according to the flesh: 4 who are Israelites; to 
whom pertaineih the adoption, and the glory, and covenants, 
and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; 
5 whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh 
Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen. 



H. THE PAST AND THE PROMISE OF GOD 
a. The Promise of God to Israel 

6 Not as though the word of God had taken none effect. For 
they are not all Israel, that are of Israel: 7 neither, because 
they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children; but, "In 
Isaac shall thy seed be called." 1 8 That is, they that are the 
children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the 
children of the promise are counted for the seed. 9 For this is 
the word of promise, "At this time will I come, and Sarah shall 
have a son." 2 10 And not only this; but when Rebecca also 
had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac 11 [For the 
children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, 
that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not 
of works, but of him that calleth]; 12 it was said unto her, 
"The elder shall serve the younger." 13 As it is written, 
"Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated." 8 



b. The Giving of the Promise 

14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with 
God? God forbid. 15 For he saith to Moses, "I will have 



Gen. 21:12. 2 Gen. 18:10, 14. » Deut> 21:15. 

Chapter 8:39-9:15 



356 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on 
whom I will have compassion." l 16 So then it is not of him 
that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth 
mercy. 17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, "Even 2 for 
this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might show my 
power in thee, and that my name might be declared through- 
out all the earth." 18 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he 
will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth. 



c. The Fulfilment of the Promise 

19 Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? 
For who hath resisted his will? 20 Nay but, O man, who art 
thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say 
to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? 21 Hath 
not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make 
one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? 22 What 
if God, willing to show his wrath, and to make his power known, 
endured with much longsurfering the vessels of wrath fitted to 
destruction; 23 and that he might make known the riches 
of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had before pre- 
pared unto glory, 24 even us, whom he hath called, not of 
the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? 25 As he saith also in 
Hosea : 

* * * 

"I will call them my people, who were not my people; 
And her beloved, who was not beloved." 3 
26 And it shall come to pass, that in the place where 
it was said unto them, 'You are not my people,' 
There shall they be called the children of the 
living God." 4 

* 

27 Isaiah also cried concerning Israel, 6 "Though the number of 
the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall 
be saved: 28 for he will finish the work, and cut it short in 
righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon 
the earth." 29 And as Isaiah said before, 

* * * 

"Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, 
We had been as Sodom, and been made like unto 
Gomorrah." 8 



i Ex. 33:19. 2 Ex. 9:16. 3 Hos. 2:23. 4 Hos. 1:10. 5 Isa. 10:22. 
•Isa. 1:9. 

Chapter 9:16-29 



9:30 The Epistle to the Romans 357 

IH. THE PRESENT AND THE PLACE OF ISRAEL 
a. The Error of Israel Concerning Christ 

30 What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, who followed 
not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even 
the righteousness which is of faith: 31 but Israel, who followed 
after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of 
righteousness. 32 Wherefore? Because they sought it not by 
faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled 
at that stumblingstone ; 33 as it is written: 

* * * 

"Behold, I lay in Zion a stumblingstone 
and rock of offence: 
And whosoever believeth on him 
shall not be ashamed." 1 



b. The Seriousness of Israel's Error 

10: 1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel 
is, that they might be saved. 2 For I bear them record that 
they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 3 
For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about 
to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted them- 
selves unto the righteousness of God. 4 For Christ is the end 
of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. 5 For 
Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, "That 
the man that doeth those things shall live by them." 2 6 But 
the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, "Say 
not in thy heart, Who shall ascend into heaven?" [that is, to 
bring Christ down from above:] 7 or, "Who shall descend into 
the deep?" 3 [that is, to bring Christ up from the dead.] 8 But 
what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in 
thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 that 
if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt 
believe in thy heart that God hath raised him from the dead, 
thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto 
righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto sal- 
vation. 11 For the scripture saith, "Whosoever believeth on 
him shall not be ashamed." 4 12 For there is no difference be- 
tween the Jew and the Greek : for the same Lord over all is rich un- 
to all that call upon him. 13 For, "Whosoever shall call on the 
name of the Lord shall be saved." 5 14 How shall they call on him 
in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in 

i Ps. 118:22. 2 Lev. 18:5. 3 Deut. 30:12, 13. 

4 Isa. 28:16. 6 Joel 2:32. 

Chapter 9:30-10:14 



358 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear 

without a preacher? 15 and how shall they preach, except they 

be sent ? as it is written : 

* * * 

"How beatuiful are the feet of them that preach 

the gospel of peace, 
And bring glad tidings of good things!" 1 



c. The Responsibility of Israel 

16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah 
saith, "Lord, who hath believed our report?" 2 17 So then faith 
cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. 18 But I 
say, Have they not heard ? Yea, verily : 

* * * 

"Their sound went into all the earth, 
And their words unto the ends of the world." 3 
* 

19 But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith: 

* * * 

"I will provoke you to jealousy by them that 
are no people, 
And by a foolish nation I will anger you." 4 
* 

20 But Isaiah is very bold, and saith, 

"I was found of them that sought me not; 

I was made manifest unto them that asked not 

after me." 8 

* 

21 But to Israel he saith, "All day long have I stretched forth 
my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people." 9 



IV. THE FUTURE AND THE REJECTION OF ISRAEL 
a. The Partial Rejection of Israel 

11:1 I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God for- 
bid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the 
tribe of Benjamin. 2 God hath not cast away his people whom 
he foreknew. Know you not what the scripture saith of Elijah? 
how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying, 7 

1 Isa. 52:7. « i sa# 53-1. 3 p s . io :4 . 4 De ut. 32:21. 

* Isa. 65:1. • Isa. 65:2. 7 1. Kings 19:10, 14. 

Chapter 10:15-11:2 



11:3 The Epistle to the Romans 359 

3 "Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine 

altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life." 4 But 

what saith the answer of God unto him? "I have reserved to 

myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to 

the image of Baal." 5 Even so at this present time there is a 

remnant according to the election of grace. 6 And if by grace, 

then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. 

But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is 

no more work. 7 What then? Israel hath not obtained that 

which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the 

rest were blinded, 8 [According as it is written, 1 "God hath 

given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, 

and ears that they should not hear."] unto this day. 9 And 

David saith : 

* * * 

"Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, 
And a stumblingblock, and a recompense unto 
them: 
10 Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, 
And bow down their back always." 2 



b. The Temporary Rejection of Israel 

11 I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? 
God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto 
the Gentiles, to provoke them to jealousy. 12 Now if the fall 
of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them 
the riches of the Gentiles, how much more their fulness? 13 
For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the 
Gentiles, I magnify my office: 14 If by any means I may pro- 
voke to emulation them that are my flesh, and might save some of 
them. 15 For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of 
the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the 
dead? 16 For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: 
and if the root be holy, so are the branches. 17 And if some of 
the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, 
were grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root 
and fatness of the olive tree; 18 boast not against the branches. 
But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. 
19 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I 
might be grafted in. 20 Well; because of unbelief they were 
broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, 
but fear: 21 for if God spared not the natural branches, take 
heed lest he also spare not thee. 22 Behold therefore the good- 

*Isa. 29:10. »Ps. 69:22. 

Chapter 11:3-22 



360 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

ness and severity of God: on them that fell, severity; but toward 
thee, goodness; if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou 
also shalt be cut off. 23 And they also, if they abide not still 
in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in 
again. 24 For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is 
wild by nature, and were grafted contrary to nature into a good 
olive tree: how much more shall these, which are the natural 
branches, be grafted into their own olive tree ? 



c. The Restoration of Israel through Christ 

25 For I would not, brethren, that you should be ignorant 

of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own conceits; 

that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of 

the Gentiles be come in. 26 And so all Israel shall be saved; 

as it is written: 

* * * 

"There shall come out of Zion the Deliverer, 
And shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob : 
27 For this is my covenant with them, 
When I shall take away their sins." 1 
* 

28 As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: 
but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' 
sakes. 29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repen- 
tance. 30 For as you in times past have not believed God, 
yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief: 31 even 
so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy 
they also may obtain mercy. 32 For God hath concluded them 
all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all. 



d. The Seven-Fold Doxology 

33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom 
and the knowledge of God! 

How unsearchable are his judgments, 
And his ways past finding out. 

34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? 
Or who hath been his counsellor? 

35 Or who hath first given to him, and it shall 
be recompensed unto him again? 

36 For of him, and through him, and to him are 
all things: to whom be the glory for ever. Amen. 



l Isa. 14:7. 

Chapter 11:23-36 



Port (K&m 
The Exhortation for the Romans 



§1. THE CHRISTIAN IN SOCIETY 

I. THE DUTY OF THE CHRISTIAN IN DAILY LIFE 

a. The Call to Personal Consecration 

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, 
that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable 1 
unto God, which is your reasonable 2 service. 2 And be not con- 
formed to the world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of 
your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable 
and perfect will of God. 

b. The Seven-Fold Individual Responsibility 

3 For I say through the grace given unto me, to every man 
that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he 
ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath 
dealt to every man the measure of faith. 4 For as we have 
many members in one body, and all members have not the same 
office, 5 so we being many, are one body in Christ, and every 
one members one of another. 6 Having then gifts differing 
according to the grace that is given unto us : 

Whether prophecy, let us prophesy according 
to the proportion of faith ; 

7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering; 
Or he that teacheth, on teaching; 

8 Or he that exhort eth, on exhortation; 

He that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; 

He that ruleth, with diligence; 

He that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness. 



c. The Seven-Fold Triplicate Social Obligation 

9 Let love be without dissimulation. 

Abhor that which is evil and cleave to that 
which is good. 



1 Greek — well-pleasing. 2 Or — spiritual. 

361 Chapter 12:1-8 



362 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with broth- 
erly love, in honour preferring one another. 

* * 

11 Not slothful in business; 
Fervent in spirit; 
Serving the Lord. 

* * * 

12 Rejoicing in hope; 
Patient in tribulation; 
Continuing instant in prayer. 



13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given 
to hospitality. 

14 Bless them that persecute you: bless and 
curse not. 

15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep 
with them that weep. 

** * ** 

16 Be of the same mind one toward another. 
Mind not high things, but condescend to men 

of low estate. 

Be not wise in your own conceits. 
*** *** 

17 Recompense to no man evil for evil; 
Provide things honest in the sight of all men; 

18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you live 
peaceably with all men. 

*** * *** 
» 

19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but 
rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, 1 
"Vengeance is mine; I will repay," saith the Lord. 

20 Therefore, 

* * * 

"If thine enemy hunger, feed him; 
If he thirst, give him drink; 
For in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire 
on his head." 2 
* 

21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with 
good. 



»Deut. 32:35. 2 Prov. 25:21. 

Chapter 12:10-21 



13:1 The Epistle to the Romans 363 

H. THE DUTY OF THE CHRISTIAN IN THE STATE 
The Divine Authority of Government 

13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For 
there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained 
of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth 
the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to them- 
selves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, 
but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? 
do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 
4 for he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou 
do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in 
vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath 
upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore you must needs be 
subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For 
this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, 
attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore 
to all their dues : tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom 
custom : fear to whom fear : honour to whom honour. 



IH. THE SUMMARY OF THE SITUATION 
a. The Law of Brotherly Love 

8 Owe no man anything, but to love one another: for he that 
loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this — 



'Thou shalt not commit adultery, 

Thou shalt not kill, 

Thou shalt not steal, 

Thou shalt not bear false witness, 

Thou shalt not covet;" l 



and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly compre- 
hended in this saying, namely, 



"Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."* 



10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the 
fulfilling of the law. 



1 Ex. 20:14. 2 Lev. 19:18. 

Chapter 13:1-10 



364 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

b. The Duty of the Hour 

11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to 
wake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when 
we believed. 12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: 
let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on 
the armour of light. 13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; 
not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wanton- 
ness, not in strife and envying. 14 But put ye on the Lord 
Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the 
lusts thereof. 



§2. THE CHRISTIAN IN THE CHURCH 
I. THE DUTY OF THE STRONG TOWARD THE WEAK 
a. The Duty of Christian Forbearance 

14 : 1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful 
disputations. 2 For one belie veth that he may eat all things: 
another, who is weak, eateth herbs. 3 Let not him that eateth 
despise him that eateth not ; and let not him that eateth not judge 
him that eateth: for God hath received him. 4 Who art thou 
that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth 
or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make 
him stand. 5 One man esteemeth one day above another : another 
esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in 
his own mind. 6 He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto 
the Lord : and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth 
not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth 
God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, 
and giveth God thanks. 7 For none of us liveth to himself, 
and no man dieth to himself. 8 For whether we live, we live 
unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether 
we live therefore or die, we are the Lord's. 9 For to this end 
Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord 
both of the dead and living. 10 But why dost thou judge thy 
brother? or why dost thou set at naught thy brother? for we shall 
all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. 1 1 For it is written : 

* * * 

"As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall 
bow to me, 
And every tongue shall confess to God." * 
* 
12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. 

*Isa. 45:23. 

Chapter 13:11-14:12 



14:13 The Epistle to the Romans 365 

b. The Duty of Christian Self-Denial 

13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but 
judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion 
to fall in his brother's way. 14 I know, and am persuaded by 
the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him 
that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. 
15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest 
thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom 
Christ died. 16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of: 17 
for the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, 
and peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18 For he that in these 
things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. 
19 Let us therefore follow after the things that make for peace, 
and things wherewith one may edify another. 20 For meat 
destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it 
is evil for that man who eateth with offence. 21 It is good 
neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy 
brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. 22 Hast 
thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that 
condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. 23 
And he that doubt eth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of 
faith : for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. 



H. THE RELATION OF JEW AND GENTILE 
The Unity in Jesus Christ 

15:1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities 

of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let every one of 

us please his neighbor for his good to edification. 3 For even 

Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, "The reproaches 

of them that reproached thee fell on me." 4 For whatsoever 

things were written aforetime were written for our learning, 

that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might 

have hope. 5 Now the God of patience and consolation grant 

you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ 

Jesus: 6 that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify 

God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Wherefore 

receive ye one another, as Christ also received us, to the glory 

of God. 8 Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the 

circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made 

unto the fathers: 9 and that the Gentiles might glorify God 

for his mercy; as it is written: 

* * * 

"For this cause I will confess to thee among the 
Gentiles, 

Chapter 14:13-15:9 



366 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

And sing unto thy name." 1 
* 

10 And again he saith, "Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people." 2 

11 And again: 

* * * 

"Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; 
And laud him, all ye people." 3 

* 

12 And again, Isaiah saith: 

* * * 

"There shall be a root of Jesse, 
And he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles, 
In him shall the Gentiles trust." 4 



The Benediction 

13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in be- 
lieving, that you may abound in hope, through the power of the 
Holy Spirit. 

1 Ps. 18:49. 2 Deut. 32:43. 3 Ps. 117:1. * Isa. 9:6, 7; 11:1. 

Chapter 15:10-13 



Part Four 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE APOSTLE AND THE ROMANS 
I. THE MINISTRY OF PAUL 
a. The Personal Word with the Romans 

And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that 
you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also 
to admonish one another. 15 Nevertheless, brethren, I have 
written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in 
mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God, 16 that 
I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, minister- 
ing the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might 
be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Spirit. 17 I have 
therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ in those 
things that pertain to God. 18 For I will not dare to speak of 
any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to 
make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed, 19 through 
mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; 
so that from Jerusalem, and roundabout unto Illyricum, I have 
fully preached the gospel of Christ. 20 Yea, so have I striven 
to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should 
build upon another man's foundation: 21 but as it is written: 

* * * 

"To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see, 
And they that have not heard shall understand." 1 



b. The Missionary Plans of Paul 

22 For which cause also I have been much hindered from 
coming to you. 23 But now having no more place in these 
parts, and having a great desire these many years to come unto 
you, 24 whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come 
to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on 
my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with 
your company. 25 But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto 
the saints. 26 For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and 

l Isa. 52:15. 

367 Chapter 15:14-26 



368 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints that 
are at Jerusalem. 27 It hath pleased them verily; and their 
debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers 
of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them 
in carnal things. 28 When therefore I have performed this, 
and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain. 
29 And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in 
the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. 



c. The Request for Prayer 

30 Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's 
sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that you strive together 
with me in your prayers to God for me; 31 that I may be de- 
livered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my 
service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints ; 
32 that I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and 
may with you be refreshed. 33 Now the God of peace fo|with 
you all. Amen. 



II. THE SALUTATIONS AND BENEDICTION 
a. The Commendation of Phoebe 

16:1 I commend unto you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant 
of the church which is at Cenchraea: 2 that you receive her 
in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that you assist her in what- 
soever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a suc- 
courer of many, and of myself also. 



b. The Salutations of the Apostle 

3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ 
Jesus, 4 who for my life laid down their own necks: 
unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the 
churches of the Gentiles. 

5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house. 
Salute my well beloved Epaenetus, who is the first- 
fruits of Achaia unto Christ. 

6 Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us. 

7 Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and 
my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, 
who also were in Christ before me. 

8 Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord. 

9 Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys 
my beloved. 

Chapter 15:27-16:9 



16:10 The Epistle to the Romans 369 

10 Salute Apelles, approved in Christ. 

Salute them that are of Aristobulus' household. 

11 Salute Herodion my kinsman. 

Greet them that are of the household of Narcissus, 
that are in the Lord. 

12 Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the 
Lord. 

Salute the beloved Per sis, who laboured much in the 
Lord, 

13 Salute Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother 
and mine. 

14 Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hernias, Patrobas, 
Hermes, and the brethren that are with them. 

15 Salute Philologus, and Julia, Mereus, and his sister, 
and Olympas, and all the saints that are with them. 

* 

16 Salute one another with a holy kiss. 
The churches of Christ salute you. 



c. The Closing Admonition to Unity 

17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them that cause divi- 
sions and offences contrary to the doctrine which you have learned ; 
and avoid them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord 
Jesus Christ, but their own selves; and by good words and fair 
speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. 19 For your obedience 
is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: 
but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple 
concerning that which is evil. 20 And the God of peace shall 
bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord 
Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. 



d. The Salutations of Paul's Companions 

21 Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and 
Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you. 

* 

22 I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord. 

* 

23 Gaius my host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. 

Erastus, the chamberlain of the city, saluteth you, and 

Quartus a brother. 

* 

24 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 

Chapter 16:10-24 



370 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

f. The Closing Benediction 

25 Now to him that is of power to establish you according 
to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to 
the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the 
world began, 26 but now is made manifest, and by the scrip- 
tures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the 
everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience 
of faith: 27 to God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ 

for ever. Amen. 

* * * 

* * 

* 



The First Epistle to the Corinthians 



Part <fi)iu 
The Introduction 1 



THE COMMENDATION OF THE CORINTHIANS 

THE SALUTATION AND THANKSGIVING 

a. The Salutation 

Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will 
of God, and Sosthenes our brother, 2 unto the church of God 
which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, 
called to be saints, with all them that in every place call upon the 
name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: 3 Grace 
be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord 
Jesus Christ. 



b. The Thanksgiving 

4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God 
which is given iyou by Jesus Christ ; 5 that in every thing you are 
enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; 6 even 
as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you ; 7 so that you 
come behind in no gift ; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus 
Christ: 8 who shall confirm you unto the end, that you may be 
blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God is faithful 
by whom you were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus 
Christ our Lord. 



1 Written from Ephesus early in the third missionary journey. 

Chapter 1:1-9 



373 



Part $too 

The Instruction for the Corinthians 
Concerning Reports 



§1. THE REPORT OF DIVISIONS IN THE CHURCH 

I. THE PARTY SPIRIT AND THE GOSPEL 

a. The Unity of the Gospel 

Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus 
Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no 
divisions among you; but that you be perfectly joined together 
in the same mind in the same judgment. 11 For it hath been 
declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them that are of the 
house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. 12 Now 
this I say, that every one of you saith, "I am of Paul;" and, "I 
of Apollos;" and, "I of Cephas;" and, "I of Christ." 13 Is 
Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were you baptized 
in the name of Paul? 14 I thank God that I baptized none of 
you, but Crispus and Gaius; 15 lest any should say that I had 
baptized in my own name. 16 And I baptized also the house- 
hold of Stephanus; besides, I know not whether I baptized 
any other. 



b. The Wisdom of Gospel Preaching 

17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel; 

not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made 

of no effect. 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that 

perish foolishness; but unto us that are saved it is the power of 

God. 19 For it is written: 

* * * 

"I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, 
And will bring to nothing the understanding of 
the prudent." 1 

20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer 
of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this 



Usa. 29:14. 

375 Chapter 1:10-20 



376 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

world? 21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by 
wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the follishness of preach- 
ing to save them that believe. 22 For the Jews require a sign, 1 
and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 23 but we preach Christ 
crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, 2 and unto the Greeks 
foolishness; 24 but unto them that are called, both Jews and 
Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 
Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men ; and the weakness 
of God is stronger than men. 



c. The Humble Body of Disciples at Corinth 

26 For you see your calling, brethren, how that not many 
wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are 
called: 27 but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world 
to confound the wise ; and God hath chosen the weak things of the 
world to confound the things that are mighty ; 28 and base things 
of the world, and things that are despised, hath God chosen, yea, 
and things that are not, to bring to naught things that are: 29 
that no flesh should glory in his presence. 30 But of him are 
you in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and 
righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: 31 that 
according as it is written, "He that glorieth, let him glory in the 
Lord." 3 



d. The Wisdom of Paul's Ministry 

2:1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with 
excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the tes- 
timony of God. 2 For I determined not to know any thing 
among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3 And I was 
with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 4 And 
my speech and my preaching were not with enticing words of 
man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 
5 that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in 
the power of God. 



e. The Spiritual Message of Paul 

6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: 
yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, 
that come to naught: 7 but we speak the wisdom of God in a 
mystery, even the hidden wisdom, that God ordained before the 
world unto our glory : 8 which none of the princes of this world 

1 Luke 11:16. 2 Isa. 8:14. * Jer. 9:23. 

Chapter 1:21-2:8 



2:9 The First Epistle to the Corinthians 377 

knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the 
Lord of Glory. 9 But as it is written, 

* * * 

"Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, 

Neither hath entered into the heart of man, 

The things that God hath prepared for them that 

love him." 1 

* 

10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his spirit: for the 
Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 
For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of 
man that is in him? even so, the things of God knoweth no man, 
but the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit 
of the world, but the spirit that is of God; that we might know 
the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things 
also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, 
but which the Holy Spirit teacheth; comparing spiritual things 
with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things 
of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither 
can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15 
But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged 
of no man. 16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that 
he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. 



H. THE PARTY SPIRIT AND THE CHURCH 

a. The Spiritual Life of the Corinthians 

3 : 1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, 
but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. 2 I have fed 
you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto you were not 
able to bear it, neither yet now are you able. 3 For you are 
yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, 
and divisions, are you not carnal, and walk as men? 4 For 
while one saith, "I am of Paul;" and another, "I am of Apollos;" 
are you not carnal? 5 Who then is Paul? and who is Apollos, 
but ministers by whom you believed, even as the Lord gave to 
every man? 6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave 
the increase. 7 So then neither is he that planteth anything, 
neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. 8 
Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one : and every 
man shall receive his own reward according to his own labours. 
9 For we are labourers together with God: you are God's hus- 
bandry, ye are God's building. 

1 Isa. 64:4. 

Chapter 2:9-3:9 



378 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

b. The Foundation of the Corinthian Church 

10 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, 
as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another 
buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth 
thereupon. 11 For other foundation can no man lay than 
what is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man build 
upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, 
stubble; 13 every man's work shall be made manifest: for the 
day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the 
fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. 14 And if 
any man's work abide that he hath built thereupon, he shall 
receive a reward. 15 If any man's work shall be burned, he 
shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. 



c. The Church the Temple of God 

16 Know you not that you are the temple of God, and that the 
Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple 
of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, 
which temple you are. 

d. The Inheritance of the Church 

18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you 

seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he 

may be wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness 

with God. For it is written, "He taketh the wise in their own 

craftiness;" 1 20 and again: 

* * * 

"The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, 

That they are vain." 2 
* 

21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; 

22 whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or 
death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; 23 
and you are Christ's; and Christ is God's. 



m. THE PARTY SPIRIT AND THE MINISTER 
a. The Minister and the Church 

4:1 Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, 
and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required 
in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 3 But with me it 

1 Job 5:13. 2 Ps. 94:11. 

Chapter 3:10-4:3 



4:4 The First Epistle to the Corinthians 379 

is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's 
judgment : yea, I judge not my own self. 4 For I know nothing 
by myself; yet am I not hereby justified; but he that judgeth me 
is the Lord. 5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until 
the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of 
darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the heart : and 
then shall every man have praise of God. 



b. The Minister's Lot in the World 

6 And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to 
myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that you might learn in us 
not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of 
you be purled up for one against another. 7 For who maketh 
thee to differ from another? And what hast thou that thou didst 
not receive? Now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, 
as if thou hadst not received it? 8 Now you are full, now you 
are rich; you have reigned as kings without us: and I would to 
God you did reign, that we also might reign with you. 9 For 
I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were 
appointed to death : for we are made a spectacle unto the world, 
and to angels, and to men. 10 We are fools for Christ's sake, 
but you are wise in Christ ; we are weak, but you are strong ; you 
are honourable, but we are despised. 11 Even unto this present 
hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, 
and have no certain dwellingplace ; 12 and labour, working 
with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, 
we suffer it: 13 being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the 
filth of the world, and are the off scouring of all things unto this 
day. 



c. The Minister's Authority in the Church 

14 I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved 
sons I warn you. 15 For though you have ten thousand in- 
structors in Christ, yet have you not many fathers: for in Christ 
Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 1 16 Wherefore 
I beseech you, be ye followers of me. 17 For this cause have 
I sent unto you Timothy, who is my beloved son, and faithful 
in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways 
that are in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church. 18 
Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you. 
19 But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will 
know, not the speech of them that are puffed up, but the power. 

*Acts 18:lf. 

Chapter 4:4-19 



380 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

20 For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. 21 
What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and 
in the spirit of meekness? 



§2. THE REPORT OF IMMORALITY AT CORINTH 

I. THE LUST IN THE CONGREGATION 

a. The Duty of the Church Toward the Offender 

5:1 It is reported commonly that there is fornication among 
you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among 
the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife. 2 And 
you are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that 
hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. 3 
For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged 1 
already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath 
done this deed, 4 in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when 
you are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of 
our Lord Jesus Christ, 5 to deliver such a one unto Satan, 
for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in 
the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 6 Your glorying is not good. 
Know you not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? 
7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that you may be a new 
lump, as you are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is 
sacrificed for us: 8 therefore let us keep the feast, not with old 
leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but 
with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. 



b. The Duty of the Corinthians 

9 I wrote 2 unto you in an epistle not to have company with 
fornicators; 10 not yet altogether with the fornicators of this 
world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; 
for then must you needs go out of the world. 11 But now I 
have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is 
called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, 
or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such a one no 
not to eat. 12 For what have I to do to judge them also that 
are without? do not you judge them that are within? 13 But 
them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from 
among yourselves that wicked person. 

1 Paul seems to have assembled the congregation in spirit as a court, 
himself in spirit presiding as judge and passing sentence of expulsion upon 
the offender. 

2 This Epistle is believed by some to be included in 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1. 

Chapter 4:20-5:13 



6:1 The First Epistle to the Corinthians 381 

II. THE LITIGATION OF THE CORINTHIANS 
The Recommendation of Arbitration 

6:1 Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go 
to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? 2 Do you 
not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world 
shall be judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest 
matters? 3 Know you not that we shall judge angels? how 
much more things that pertain to this life? 4 If then you have 
judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge 
who are least esteemed in the church. 5 I speak to your shame. 
Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one 
that shall be able to judge between his brethren? 6 But brother 
goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. 7 
Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because you 
go to law one with another. Why do you not rather take wrong? 
why do you not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded? 8 Nay, 
you do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren. 9 Know 
you not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of 
God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor 
adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with man- 
kind, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, 
nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And 
such were some of you : but you are washed, but you are sanctified, 
but you are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the 
Spirit of our God. 



HI. THE HIGHER SPIRITUAL LAW 
The Human Body a Temple of the Holy Spirit 

12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not ex- 
pedient: l all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought 
under the power of any. 13 Meats for the belly, and the belly 
for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the 
body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for 
the body. 14 And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will 
also raise us up by his own power. 15 Know you not that your 
bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members 
of Christ, and make them the members of a harlot? God forbid. 
16 What? know you not that he that is joined to a harlot is one 
body? "For two," saith he, "shall be one flesh." 2 17 But he 
that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. 18 Flee fornication. 

1 Or, profitable. 2 Gen. 2 :24. 

Chapter 6:1-18 



382 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

Every sin that a man doeth is without the body: for he that 
committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 19 What? 
know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit 
which is in you, which you have of God, and you are not your 
own? 20 For you are bought with a price: therefore glorify 
God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. 

Chapter ]1: 19-20 



382 



JNrt (E&m 

The Instruction for the Corinthians 
in Reply to Inquiries 



§1. THE INQUIRY CONCERNING MARRIAGE 

I. THE IMPORTANCE OF MARRIAGE 

The Recommendation to Husbands and Wives 

Now concerning the things whereof you wrote 1 unto me: It 
is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2 Nevertheless, to 
avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every 
woman have her own husband. 3 Let the husband render 
unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto 
the husband. 4 The wife hath not power of her own body, 
but the husband; and likewise also the husband hath not power 
of his own body, but the wife. 5 Defraud ye not one the other, 
except it be with consent for a time, that you may give your- 
selves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan 
tempt you not for your incontinency. 6 But I speak this by 
permission, and not of commandment. 7 For I would that 
all men were even as I myself. But every man hath this 
proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after 
that. 



H. THE GOSPEL OF MARRIAGE 
a. The Word of the Lord Concerning Marriage 

8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good 
for them if they abide even as I. 9 But if they cannot contain, 
let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. 10 And 
unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, 2 Let not 
the wife depart from her husband: 11 but if she depart, let her 
remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband, and let not 
the husband put away his wife. 



1 This letter was doubtless brought from Corinth b> Stephanas, For- 
tunatus and Achaicus. See Ch. 16:17. 
2 Matt. 19:3f. 

383 Chapter 7:1-11 



384 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

b. The Recommendation of Paul 

12 But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath 
a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, 
let him not put her away. 13 And the woman that hath a hus- 
band that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, 
let her not leave him. 14 For the unbelieving husband is sancti- 
fied by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the 
husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they 
holy. 15 But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A 
brother or sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God 
hath called us to peace. 16 For what knowest thou, O wife, 
whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O 
man, whether thou shalt save thy wife? 17 But as God hath 
distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so 
let him walk. 



c. The Usage in all the Churches 

And so ordain I in all the churches. 18 Is any man called 
being circumcised? let him not become uncircumcised. Is any 
man called in uncircumcision, let him not be circumcised. 19 
Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but 
the keeping of the commandments of God. 20 Let every man 
abide in the same calling wherein he was called. 21 Art thou 
called being a servant ? x care not for it : but if thou mayest be made 
free, use it rather. 22 For he that is called in the Lord, being 
a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, 
being free, is Christ's servant. 23 You are bought with a price; 
be not ye the servants of men. 24 Brethren, let every man, 
wherein he is called, therein abide with God. 



HI. THE CARE OF VIRGINS IN THE CHURCH 

The Apostle's Recommendation 

25 Now concerning virgins, I have no commandment of the 
Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy 
of the Lord to be faithful. 26 I suppose therefore that this is 
good for the present distress, 2 I say, that it is good for a man so 
to be. 27 Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. 
Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife. 28 But if thou 
marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not 
sinned. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh: but 
I spare you. 29 But this I say, brethren, The time is short: it 
remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they 

1 A slave. 2 Or, necessity. 

Chapter 7:12-29 



7:30 The First Epistle to the Corinthians 385 

had none; 30 and they that weep as though they rejoiced not; 
and they that buy, as though they possessed not; 31 and they 
that use this world, as not abusing it; for the fashion of this world 
passeth away. 32 But I would have you without carefulness. 
He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the 
Lord, how he may please the Lord; 33 but he that is married 
careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please 
his wife. 34 There is a difference also between a wife and a virgin. 
The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she 
may be holy both in body and in spirit : but she that is married 
careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband. 
35 And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a 
snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that you may 
attend unto the Lord without distraction. 36 But if any man 
think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if 
she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what 
he will, he sinneth not : let them marry. 37 Nevertheless he that 
standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power 
over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will 
keep his virgin, doeth well. 38 So then he that giveth her in 
marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage 
doeth better. 39 The wife is bound by the law as long as the 
husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be 
married to whom she will, only in the Lord. 40 But she is 
happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also 
that I have the Spirit of God. 



§2. THE INQUIRY CONCERNING SACRIFICIAL MEATS * 

I. THE APOSTLE'S INSTRUCTION 

a. The Duty and Example of the Christian Church 

8 : 1 Now concerning things offered unto idols, we know that 
we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity 
edifieth. 2 And if any man think that he knoweth anything, 
he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know. 3 But if any man 
love God, the same is known of him. 4 As concerning therefore 
the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, 
we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is 
no other God but one. 5 For though there be that are called 
Gods, whether in heaven or in earth [as there are gods many and 
lords many], 6 but to us there is but one God, the Father, of 
whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, 
by whom are all things, and we by him. 7 Howbeit there is not 
in every man that knowledge; for some with conscience of the 

1 Meats offered to idols and then sold in the marketplaces. 

Chapter 7:30-8:7 



386 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and 
their conscience being weak is defiled. 8 But meat commendeth 
us not to God: for neither if we eat are we the better, neither if 
we eat not are we the worse. 9 But take heed lest by any means 
this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are 
weak. 10 For if any man see thee that hast knowledge sit at 
meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him that is 
weak be emboldened to eat those things that are offered to idols ; 
11 and through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for 
whom Christ died? 12 But when you sin so against the brethren, 
and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. 13 
Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no 
flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend. 



b. The Example of Paul and Others 

9:1 Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen 1 
Jesus Christ our Lord? are not you my work in the Lord? 2 If 
I am not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for 
the seal of my apostleship are you in the Lord. 3 My answer 
to them that do examine me is this, 4 Have we not power to 
eat and to drink? 5 Have we not power to lead about a sister, 
a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, 
and Cephas? 6 Or I only and Barnabas, have we not power 
to forbear working? 7 Who goeth a warfare any time at his 
own charges? who plant eth a vineyard, and eateth not of the 
fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk 
of the flock? 



c. The Instruction of the Law of Moses 

8 Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same 
also? 9 For it is written in the law of Moses, 2 "Thou shalt 
not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn." 
Doth God take care for oxen? 10 or saith he it altogether for 
our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that 
ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope 
should be partaker of his hope. 11 If we have sown unto you 
spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal 
things? 12 If others be partakers of this power over you, are 
not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; 
but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ. 
13 Do you not know that they that minister about holy things 

l Acts9:3i. 2 Deut. 25:4. 

Chapter 8:8-9:13 



9:14 The First Epistle to the Corinthians 387 

live of the things of the temple? and they that wait at the altar 
are partakers with the altar? 14 Even so hath the Lord ordained 
that they that preach the gospel should live of the gospel. 



d. The Principle of Paul's Preaching 

15 But I have used none of these things; neither have I written 
these things, that it should be so done unto me : for it were better 
for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void. 
16 For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: 
for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me if I preach not 
the gospel! 17 For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: 
but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed 
unto me. 18 What is my reward then? Verily that, when I 
preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without 
charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel. 



e. The Practice of Paul in His Ministry 

19 For though I am free from all men, yet have I made my- 
self a servant unto all, that I might gain the more. 20 And 
unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to 
them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might 
gain them that are under the law; 21 to them that are with- 
out law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but 
under the law to Christ) that I might gain them that are without 
law. 22 To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the 
weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means 
save some. 23 And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might 
be partaker thereof with you. 24 Know you not that they that 
run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, 
that you may obtain. 25 And every man that striveth for the 
mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a 
corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26 I therefore so 
run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the 
air: 27 but I keep under my body, and bring it into subjec- 
tion: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others „ 
I myself should be a castaway. 



f. The Example of Israel 

10:1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that you should be 
ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all 
passed through the sea; 2 and were baptized unto Moses in 
the cloud and in the sea; 3 and did all eat the same spiritual 

Chapter 9:14-10:3 



3SS The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

meat; 4 and did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they 
drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock 
was Christ. 5 But with many of them God was not well pleased; 
for they were overthrown in the wilderness. 6 Now these things 
were our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after 
evil things, as they also lusted. 7 Neither be ye idolaters, as 
were come of them; as it is written, * "The people sat down to eat 
and drink, and rose up to play." 8 Neither let us commit forni- 
cation, as some of them committed and fell in one day three 
and twenty thousand. 2 9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some 
of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. 8 10 
Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were 
■destroyed of the destroyer. 11 Now all these things happened 
unto them for examples: and they are written for our admoni- 
tion, upon whom the ends of the world are come. 12 Wherefore 
let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. 13 
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to 
man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted 
above that you are able; but will with the temptation make a 
way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. 



II. THE EXHORTATION CONCERNING IDOLATRY 
a. The Truth of the Gospel of Christ 

14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry. 15 
I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say. 16 The cup of 
blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of 
Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of 
the body of Christ? 17 For we being many are one bread, and 
one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread. 18 Behold 
Israel after the flesh: are not they who eat of the sacrifices par- 
takers of the altar? 19 What say I then? that the idol is any- 
thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols any thing? 20 
But / say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice 
to devils, and not to God: and I would not that you should have 
fellowship with devils. 21 You cannot drink the cup of the 
Lord, and the cup of devils: you cannot be partakers of the Lord's 
table, and of the table of devils. 22 Do we provoke the Lord 
to jealousy? are we stronger than he? 



b. The Responsibility of the Gospel 

23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient : 
all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not. 24 Let 

1 Ex. 32 :6. 2 Num. 25:1. 3 Ex. 17:2. 

Chapter 10:4-24 



10:25 The First Epistle to the Corinthians 389 

no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth. 25 What- 
soever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question for 
conscience sake: 26 for "The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness 
thereof." 1 27 If any of them that believe not bid you to a 
feast, and you be disposed to go; whatever is set before you, 
eat, asking no question for conscience sake. 28 But if any 
man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat 
not for his sake that showed it, and for conscience sake: for 
"The earth is the Lord's and the fulness thereof;" 1 29 con- 
science, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why 
is my liberty judged by another man's conscience? 30 For 
if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that 
for which I give thanks? 31 Whether therefore you eat, or 
drink, or whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God. 32 
Give no offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor 
to the church of God: 33 even as I please all men in all things \ 
not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they 
may be saved. 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am 
of Christ. 



§3. THE INQUIRY CONCERNING PUBLIC WORSHIP 

I. THE PLACE OF MEN AND WOMEN IN THE CONGREGATION 

The Importance of Head-Covering for the Women 

2 Now I praise you, brethren, that you remember me in all 
things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. 
3 But I would have you know that the head of every man is 
Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head 
of Christ is God. 4 Every man praying or prophesying, having 
his head covered, dishonoureth his head. 5 But every woman 
that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth 
her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven. 6 For 
if the woman is not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a 
shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered. 
7 For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as 
he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory 
of the man. 8 For the man is not of the woman; but the woman 
of the man. 9 Neither was the man created for the woman; 
but the woman for the man. 10 For this cause ought the woman 
to have power 2 on her head because of the angels. 11 Never- 
theless neither is the man without the woman, nor the woman 
without the man, in the Lord. 12 For as the woman is of the 
man, even so is the man also by the woman; but all things of 

*Ps. 24:1. 

2 That is, a covering as a sign that she is under the power of her husband. 

Chapter 10:25-11:12 



390 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

God. 13 Judge in yoursevles: Is it comely that a woman pray 
unto God uncovered? 14 Doth not even nature itself teach you 
that if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? 15 But if 
a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given 
her for a covering. 16 But if any man seem to be contentious, 
we have no such custom, neither the churches of God. 



II. THE OBSERVANCE OF THE COMMUNION 
The Words of the Lord 

17 Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that 
you come together not for the better, but for the worse. 18 
For first of all, when you come together in the church, I hear 
that there are divisions among you; and I partly believe it. 19 
For there must be also heresies among you, that they that are 
approved may be made manifest among you. 20 When you 
come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's 
supper. 21 For in eating every one taketh before the other 
his own supper: and one is hungry, and another's drunken. 22 
What, have you not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the 
church of God? and shame them that have not? What shall 
I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not. 23 
For I have received of the Lord that which I also delivered unto 
you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed 
took bread; 24 and when he had given thanks, he brake it, 
and said, "Take eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: 
this do in remembrance of me." 25 After the same manner 
also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, "This cup is 
the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as you drink 
it, in remembrance of me." 26 For as often as you eat this 
bread, and drink this cup, you do show the Lord's death till he 
come. 27 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink 
this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and 
blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so 
let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 29 For he that 
eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation 
to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. 30 For this cause 
many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. 31 
For if you would judge yourselves, we should not be judged. 32 
But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we 
should not be comdemned with the world. 33 Wherefore, my 
brethren, when you come together to eat, tarry one for another. 
34 And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that you come 
not together unto damnation. And the rest will I set in order 
when I come. 

Chapter 11:13-34 



12:1 The First Epistle to the Corinthians 391 

III. THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 
a. The Knowledge of Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit 

12:1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not 
have you ignorant. 2 You know that you were Gentiles, 
carried away unto those dumb idols, even as you were led. 3 
Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by 
the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed; and that no man can 
say that Jesus is Lord, but by the Holy Spirit. 



b. The Various Gifts of the Spirit 

4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but 1 the same Spirit. 5 
And there are diversities of administrations, but the same Lord. 
6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God 
who worketh all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit 
is given to every man to profit withal : 

* * * 

8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of 
wisdom ; 

To another the word of knowledge by the 
same Spirit; 

9 To another faith by the same Spirit ; 

To another the gifts of healing by the same 
Spirit ; 

10 To another the working of miracles; 
To another prophecy; 
To another discerning of spirits; 
To another divers kinds of tongues ; 
To another the interpretation of tongues. 
* 

11 But all these worketh together that one and the selfsame 
Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. 



c. The Unity of Spiritual Gifts 

12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all 
the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so 
also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into 
one body, whether we are Jews or Gentiles, whether we are bond 
or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 14 
For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot 

*Eph. 4:11. 

Chapter 12:1-15 



392 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; 
is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, 
Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore 
not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were 
the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 
18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the 
body, as it hath pleased him. 19 And if they were all one member, 
where were the body? 20 But now are they many members, 
yet but one body. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I 
have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no 
need of you. 22 Nay, much more those members of the body, 
which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23 and those 
members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon 
these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts 
have more abundant comeliness. 24 For our comely parts 
have no need : but God hath tempered the body together, having 
given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: 25 
that there should be no schism in the body; but that the members 
should have the same care one for another. 26 And whether 
one member suffer, all the members suffer with it ; or one member 
be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now you are 
the body of Christ, and members in particular. 28 And God 
hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, 
thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healing, helps, 
governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? are 
all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 
have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all 
interpret? 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts; and yet I 
show unto you a more excellent way. 



IV. THE GREAT GLORY OF ALL GIFTS 
The Apostle's Ode to Love 

13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men, 
And of angels, 

And have not charity, 1 
I am become as sounding brass, or a 
tinkling cymbal. 
* 

2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, 
And understand all mysteries, 
And all knowledge; 
And though I have all faith, 



1 Love: so in revised versions. 

Chapter 12:16-13:2 



13:3 The First Epistle to the Corinthians 393 

So that I could remove mountains, 

And have not charity, 1 

I am nothing. 

* 

3 And though I bestow all my goods 

to feed the poor, 
And though I give my body to be burned.. 
And have not charity, 1 
It profiteth me nothing. 
* * 

4 Charity l suffereth long, and is kind ; 
Charity » envieth not ; 

Charity l vaunteth not itself, 
Is not puffed up, 

5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, 
Seeketh not her own, 

Is not easily provoked, 
Thinketh no evil ; 

6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, 
But rejoiceth in the truth; 

7 Beareth all things, 
Believeth all things, 
Hopeth all things, 
Endureth all things. 

* * * 

8 Charity " never f aileth : 

But whether there be prophecies, they shall fail ; 
Whether there be tongues, they shall cease ; 
Whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish 

away. 

** ** 

9 For we know in part, 
And we prophesy in part. 

10 But when that which is perfect is come, 
Then that which is in part shall be done away. 

11 When I was a child, 
I spoke as a child, 

I understood as a child, 
I thought 2 as a child; 
But when I became a man, 
I put away childish things. 
*** *** 

12 For now we see through a glass darkly, 
But then face to face; 

1 Love: so in revised versions. 2 Reasoned. 

Chapter 13:3-12 



394 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I II 

Now I know in part ; 

But then shall I know as also I am known. 

13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, 1 
these three; 
But the greatest of these is charity. 1 



V. THE MINISTRY OF PROPHECY 
a. The Ministry of Prophesy to Believers 

14 : 1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather 
that you may prophesy. 2 For he that speaketh in an unknown 
tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God : for no man under- 
standeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. 3 
But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and 
exhortation, and comfort. 4 He that speaketh in an unknown 
tongue edifieth himself ; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. 
5 I would that you all spoke with tongues, but rather that you 
prophesied : for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh 
with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive 
edifying. 6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with 
tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either 
by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine ? 
7 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or 
harp, excerpt they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it 
be known what is piped or harped? 8 For if the trumpet shall 
give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? 
9 So likewise ye, except you utter by the tongue words easy to 
be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye 
shall speak into the air. 10 There are, it may be, so many kinds 
of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. 
11 Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be 
unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall 
be a barbarian unto me. 12 Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are 
zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that you may excel to the edifying 
of the church. 13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown 
tongue pray that he may interpret. 14 For if I pray in an 
unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is 
unfruitful. 15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, 
and I will pray with the understanding also; I will sing with the 
spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. 16 Else 
when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth 
the room of the unlearned say "Amen" at thy giving of thanks? 
seeing he under standeth not what thou say est. 17 For thou 

8 Love: so in revised versions. 

Chapter 13:13-14:17 



14:18 The First Epistle to the Corinthians 395 

verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified. 18 I 
thank my God, I speak with tongues more than you all: 19 
yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my under- 
standing, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten 
thousand words in an unknown tongue. 



b. The Ministry of Prophecy to Unbelievers 

20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in 
malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. 21 In the 
law it is written, "With men of other tongues and other lips will 
I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, 
saith the Lord." l 22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to 
them that believe but to them that believe not: but prophesying 
serveth not for them that believe not, but for them that believe. 

23 If therefore the whole church be come together in one place, 
and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are un- 
learned, or unbelievers, will they not say that you are mad? 

24 But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth 
not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: 

25 and thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so 
falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God 
is in you of a truth. 



c. The Concluding Instruction 

26 What is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every 
one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath 
a revelation, hath an intrepretation. Let all things be done 
unto edifying. 27 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, 
let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and 
let one interpret. 28 But if there be no interpreter, let him 
keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to 
God. 29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other 
judge. 30 If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, 
let the first hold his peace. 31 For you may all prophesy one 
by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. 32 And 
the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 33 For 
God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all the 
churches of the saints. 34 Let your women keep silence in the 
churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they 
are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. 2 
35 And if they will learn anything, let them ask their husbands 
at home; for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. 36 
What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you 

Usa. 28:11. 2 Gen. 3:16. 

Chapter 14:18-36 



396 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

only? 37 If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, 
let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the 
commandments of the Lord. 38 But if any man be ignorant, let 
him be ignorant. 39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, 
and forbid not to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done 
decently and in order. 

§4. THE INQUIRY CONCERNING THE RESURRECTION 

I. THE DOCTRINE OF THE RESSURECTION 

a. The Resurrection of Christ 

15 : 1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which 
I preached unto you, which also you have received, and wherein 
you stand ; 2 by which also you are saved, if you keep in memory 
what I preached unto you, unless you have believed in vain. 3 
For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received: 

That Christ died for our sins according to the 
Scriptures; 1 4 and that he was buried, and that 
he rose again the third day, according to the scrip- 
tures: 2 

5 And that he was seen of Cephas, 3 
Then of the twelve; 

6 After that he was seen of above five hundred 
brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain 
unto this present, but some have fallen asleep. 

7 After that he was seen of James; 4 
Then of all the apostles. 

8 And last of all he was seen of me also, 6 as of 
one born out of due time. 

* 

9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called 
an apostle, because I persecuted 8 the church of God. 10 But by 
the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was be- 
stowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly 
than they all; yet not I, but the grace of God which was with 
me. 11 Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and 
so you believe. 

b. The Importance of the Resurrection 

12 Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how 
say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? 
13 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ 

iGen. 3:15; Ps. 22:15; Isa. 53:5; Dan. 9:26; Zech. 13:7. >Ps. 2:7; 

16:10; Isa. 53:10; Hos. 6:2. 'Simon Peter. 4 The head of the church 

in Jerusalem A. D. Circa 42-63. 6 Acts 9:4. • Acts 8:3. 

Chapter 14:37-15:13 



15:14 The First Epistle to the Corinthians 397 

not risen: 14 and if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching 
vain, and your faith is also vain. 15 Yea, and we are found 
false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he 
raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead 
rise not. 16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: 
17 and if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; you are yet in 
your sins. 18 Then they also that are fallen asleep in Christ 
are perished. 19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we 
are of all men most miserable. 20 But now is Christ risen from 
the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 



c. The Glory of the Resurrection 

21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resur- 
rection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ 
shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: 
Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 
24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the king- 
dom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all 
rule and all authority and power. 25 For he must reign, till 
he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy that 
shall be destroyed is death. 27 For he hath put all things under 
his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is 
manifest that he is excepted, who did put all things under him. 
28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall 
the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under 
him, that God may be all in all. 



d. The Seriousness of the Resurrection 

29 Else what shall they do that are baptized for the dead, 
if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the 
dead? 30 And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? 31 I 
protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our lord, 
I die daily. 32 If after the manner of men I have fought with 
beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? 
let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we die. 33 Be not deceived: 
evil communications corrupt good manners. 34 Awake to 
righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of 
God: I speak this to your shame. 



H. THE NATURE OF THE RESURRECTION 
a. The Glory of the Resurrection Body 

35 But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and 
with what body do they come? 36 Thou fool, that which thou 

Chapter 15:14-36 



398 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

sowest is not quickened, except it die; 37 and that which thou 
sowest, thou sowest not that body which shall be, but a bare grain, 
it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: 38 but God 
giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed its 
own body. 39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one 
kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, 
and another of birds. 40 There are also celestial bodies, and 
bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the 
glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the 
sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the 
stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So 
also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; 
it is raised in incorruption ; 43 it is sown in dishonour: it is 
raised in glory; it is sown in weakness: it is raised in power; 44 
it is sown a natural body : it is raised a spiritual body. There is a 
natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 45 And so it is 
written, 1 "The first Adam was made a living soul;" the last Adam 
was made a quickening spirit. 46 Howbeit that was not first 
which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that 
which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy; the 
second man is the Lord from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, 
such are they also that are earthy; and as is the heavenly, such 
are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the 
image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 



b. The Glory of the Resurrection Triumph 

50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot 
inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit 
incorruption. 51 Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not 
all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 in a moment, in the 
twinkling of an eye, at the last trump; for the trumpet shall 
sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall 
be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, 
and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this 
corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall 
have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying 
that is written, "Death is swallowed up in victory." 2 55 O 
death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 
The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. 57 
But thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through our 
Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye 
stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the 
Lord, forasmuch as you know that your labour is not in vain in 
the Lord. 



1 Gen. 2:7. 2 Isa. 25:8. 

Chapter 15:37-58 



Part Four 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE APOSTLE'S PLANS, EXHORTATIONS 

AND SALUTATIONS 

I. THE COLLECTION FOR THE SAINTS 

The Plan of Giving unto the Lord 

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I gave order 
to the churches of Galatia, so also do ye. 2 Upon the first 
day of the week, let each one of you lay by him in store, as 
God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I 
come. 3 And when I arrive, whomsoever you shall approve by 
your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jeru- 
salem. 4 And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me. 



H. THE PLAN OF PAUL TO VISIT CORINTH 
The Stay at Ephesus until Pentecost 

5 Now I will come unto you, when I shall pass through Mace- 
donia: for I do pass through Macedonia. 6 And it may be 
that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that you may bring 
me on my journey whithersoever I go. 7 For I will not see you 
now by the way; but I trust to tarry a while with you, if the Lord 
permit. 8 But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. 9 For 
a great and effectual door is opened unto me, and there are many 
adversaries. 



HI. THE PLANS OF TIMOTHY AND APOLLOS 
The Recommendations of Paul 

10 Now if Timothy come, see that he be with you without 
fear; for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do: 11 let 
no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, 
that he may come unto me : for I look for him with the brethren. 
12 As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to 
come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to 
come at this time; but he will come when he shall have a 
convenient time. 

399 Chapter 16:1-12 



400 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

IV. THE CLOSING EXHORTATIONS 
The Welcome of the Messengers from Corinth 

13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be 
strong. 14 Let all your things be done with charity. 15 I 
beseech you, brethren [you know the house of Stephanas, that 
it is the nrstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted them- 
selves to the ministry of the saints], 16 that ycu submit your- 
selves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and 
laboureth. 17 I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and For- 
tunatus and Achaicus : for that which was lacking on your part 
they have supplied. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and 
yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such. 



V. THE SALUTATIONS AND BENEDICTION 
a. The Closing Salutations 

19 The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla 
salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their 
house. 20 All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another 
with a holy kiss. 

b. The Autograph Salutation of Paul 

21 The salutation of me Paul with my own hand. 22 If 
any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be anathema. 
Marana tha. 



c. The Benediction 



23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 24 My 
love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen. 



* * * 



The Second Epistle to the Corinthians 



Part <&nt 
The Introduction 



THE COMFORT OF THE GOSPEL 

THE SALUTATION AND THANKSGIVING 
a. The Salutation 

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy 
our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all 
the saints that are in all Achaia: 2 Grace be to you and peace 
from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 



b. The Thanksgiving 

3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the 
Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 who comforteth 
us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them 
that are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves 
are comforted of God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound 
in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. 6 And 
whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, 
which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we 
also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation 
and salvation. 7 And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, 
that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so shall you be also 
of the consolation. 8 For we would not, brethren, have you 
ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were 
pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we de- 
spaired even of life : 9 but we had the sentence of death in our- 
selves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God who 
raiseth the dead: 10 who delivereth us from so great a death, 
and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us; 
11 you also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift 
bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may 
be given by many on our behalf. 

1 Written probably from Asia and Macedonia, and may be a collection of 
correspondence rather than a single letter. 



403 



Part (Etoo 

The Instruction for the Corinthians 
Concerning the Church 



§1. THE APOSTLE AND THE CORINTHIANS 

THE RELATIONS WITH THE CHURCH 

a. The Personal Sincerity of Paul 

For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, 
that in simplicity and Godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, 
but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the 
world, and more abundantly toward you. 13 For we write 
no other things unto you, than what you read or acknowledge; 
and I trust you shall acknowledge even to the end; 14 as also 
you have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, 
even as you also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus. 



b. The Corinthian Situation 

15 And in this confidence I was minded to come unto you 
before, that you might have a second benefit; 16 and to pass 
by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia 
unto you, and by you to be brought on my way toward Judasa. 
17 When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or 
the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, 
that with me there may be yea, yea, and nay, nay? 18 But as 
God is true, our word 1 toward you was not yea and nay. 19 
For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you 
by us, even by me and Sylvanus and Timothy, was not yea and 
nay, but in him was yea. 20 For all the promises of God in him 
were yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. 21 
Now he that establisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed 
us, is God; 22 who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest 
of the Spirit in our hearts. 23 Moreover I call God for a record 
upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth. 
24 Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers 
of your joy : for by faith you stand. 2 : 1 But I determined this 

1 Or, preaching. 

405 Chapter 1:12-2:1 



406 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness. 
2 For if I make you sorry, who is he that maketh me glad, but 
the same that is made sorry by me? 3 And I wrote this same 
unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of 
whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my 
joy is the joy of you all. 4 For out of much affliction and anguish 
of heart I wrote unto you with many tears: not that you should 
be grieved, but that you might know the love which I have more 
abundantly unto you. 5 But if any have caused grief, he hath 
not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all. 
6 Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted 
of many. 7 So that contrariwise you ought rather to forgive 
him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed 
up with overmuch sorrow. 8 Wherefore I beseech you that 
you would confirm your love toward him. 9 For to this end did 
I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether you are 
obedient in all things. 10 To whom you forgive any thing, I 
forgive also: for if I forgave any thing to whom I forgave it, for 
your sakes forgave I it in the person 1 of Christ; 11 lest Satan 
should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his 
devices. 



e. The Anxiety of Paul for the Corinthians 

12 Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's 
gospel, and a door was opened to me of the Lord, 13 I had no 
rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus 2 my brother: but 
taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia. 



§2. THE APOSTLESHIP OF PAUL 

I. THE OFFICE OF AN APOSTLE OF JESUS CHRIST 

a. The Blessedness of the Christian Ministry 

14 Now thanks be unto God, who always causeth us to triumph 
in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by 
us in every place. 15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of 
Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16 
to the one we are a savour of death unto death; and to the other 
the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things? 
17 For we are not as many, that corrupt the word of God: but 
as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in 
Christ. 



1 Or, in the sight of Christ. 

2 Titus had been sent from Ephesus to Corinth to reconcile and har- 
monize the church. 

Chapter 2:2-17 



3:1 The Second Epistle to the Corinthians 407 

b. The Ministry of Paul at Corinth 

3:1 Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as 
some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of com- 
mendation from you? 2 You are our epistle written in our 
hearts, known and read of all men: 3 forasmuch as you are 
manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by 
us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; 
not in tables of stone, but in fleshly tables of the heart. 



c. The Old Ministry and the New 

4 And such trust have we through Christ toward God: 5 not 
that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of our- 
selves; but our sufficiency is of God; 6 who also hath made 
us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but 
of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. 7 
But if the ministration of death, written and engraved in stones, 
was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly 
behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which 
glory was to be done away: 8 how shall not the ministration 
of the spirit be rather glorious? 9 For if the ministration of 
condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of right- 
eousness exceed in glory. 10 For even that which was made 
glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that 
excelleth. 11 For if that which is done away was glorious, much 
more that which remaineth is glorious. 12 Seeing then that 
we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: 13 and 
not as Moses, who put a veil over his face, that the children of 
Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abol- 
ished: 14 but their minds were blinded: for until this day 
remaineth the same veil untaken away in the reading of the 
old testament; which. veil is done away in Christ. 15 But even 
unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is upon their heart. 
16 Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the veil shall 
be taken away. 17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the 
Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18 But we all, with open 
face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed 
into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit 
of the Lord. 

d. The Purpose of Paul in the Ministry 

4 : 1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received 
mercy, we faint not: 2 but have renounced the hidden things 
of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word 
of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth, commending 

Chapter 3:1-4:2 



408 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. 3 But 
if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: 4 in whom 
the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them that believe 
not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the 
image of God, should shine unto them. 5 For we preach not 
ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants 
for Jesus' sake. 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine 
out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the 
knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 



II. THE SUFFERINGS OF AN APOSTLE 
a. The Heroism of the Ministry 

7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excel- 
lency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 8 We are 
troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, 
but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, 
but not destroyed; 10 always bearing about in the body the 
dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made 
manifest in our body. 11 For we that live are always delivered 
unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be 
made manifest in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death worketh 
in us, but life in you. 13 We having the same spirit of faith, 

according as it is written, 

* * * 

"I believed, and therefore have I spoken;" x 
* 

we also believe, and therefore speak; 14 knowing that he that 
raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and 
shall present us with you. 15 For all things are for your sakes, 
that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many 
redound to the glory of God. 



b. The Great Hope of the Apostle 

16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward 
man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 17 
For our light affliction, which is for a moment, worketh for 
us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory: 18 while we 
look not at the things that are seen, but at the things that are 
not seen ; for the things that are seen are temporal ; but the things 
that are not seen are eternal. 5:1 For we know that if our 
earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building 
of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 
2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon 

!Ps. 116:10. 

Chapter 4:3-5:2 



5:3 The Second Epistle to the Corinthians 409 

with our house which is from heaven: 3 if so be that being 
clothed we shall not be found naked. 4 For we that are in this 
tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not that we would be un- 
clothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed 
up of life. 5 Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame 
thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the 
Spirit. 



c. The Glory of the Life to Come 

6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, while 
we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: 7 
for we walk by faith, and not by sight: 8 we are confident, 
I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be 
present with the Lord. 9 Wherefore we labour, that, whether 
present or absent, we may be accepted of him. 10 For we must 
all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one 
may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath 
done, whether it be good or bad. 



III. THE LIFE OF AN APOSTLE 
a. The Supreme Motive of the Christian Ministry 

1 1 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men ; 
but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made 
manifest in your consciences. 12 For we commend not our- 
selves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our 
behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them that glory 
in appearance, and not in heart. 13 For whether we be beside 
ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your 
cause. 14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we 
thus judge, that if one died, for all, then were all dead: 15 and 
that he died for all, that they that live should not henceforth 
live unto themselves, but unto him that died for them, and rose 
again. 



b. The Basis of the Ministry 

16 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: 
yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now hence- 
forth know we him no more. 17 Therefore if any man be in 
Christ Jesus, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; 
behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of 
God, who hath reconciled to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath 
given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 to wit, that God 

Chapter 5:3-19 



410 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing 
their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the 
word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for 
Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in 
Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made 
him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made 
the righteousness of God in him. 6:1 We then, as workers 
together with him, beseech you also that you receive not the grace 
of God in vain. 2 For he saith: 



'I have heard thee in a time accepted, 

And in the day of salvation have I succoured thee." l 



Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salva- 
tion. 



c. The Credentials of the Ministry 

3 Giving no offence in anything, that the ministry be not 
blamed : 4 but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers 
of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in dis- 
tresses, 5 in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, 2 in labours, 
in watchings, in fastings; 6 by pureness, by knowledge, by 
longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by love unfeigned, 
7 by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of 
righteousness on the right hand and on the left, 8 by honour 
and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, 
and yet true; 9 as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and 
behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; 10 as sorrowful, 
yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having 
nothing, and yet possessing all things. 



§3. THE APPEAL TO THE CORINTHIANS 

THE PLEA OF A GREAT HEART 
a. The Call of the Apostle 

11 O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart 
is enlarged. 12 You are not straitened in us, but fyou are 
straitened in your own affections. 3 13 Now for a recompense 
in the same, I speak as unto my children, be ye also enlarged. 

1 Isa. 49:8. 2 Or, tossing to and fro. • Revised Version. 

Chapter 5:20-6:13 



6:14 The Second Epistle to the Corinthians 411 

b. The Great Appeal to the Church 

14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for 
what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and 
what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what con- 
cord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth 
with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of 
God with idols? for you are the temple of the living God; as 
God hath said, "I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I 
will be their God, and they shall be my people." 1 17 Where- 
fore, 2 

* * * 

"Come out from among them, and be ye separate, 

saith the Lord, 
And touch not the unclean thing; 
And I will receive you, 
18 And will be a Father unto you, 

And you shall be my sons and daughters, saith 
the Lord Almighty." 
* 

7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us 
cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, per- 
fecting holiness in the fear of God. 8 



c. The Apostle's Declaration of Love 

2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no 
man, we have defrauded no man. 3 I speak not this to condemn 
you: for I have said before, that you are in our hearts to die and 
to live with you. 4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, 
great is my glorying of you; I am filled with comfort, I am exceed- 
ing joyful in all our tribulation. 



§4. THE COMPLETION OF THE RECONCILIATION 

THE MISSION OF TITUS TO CORINTH 

a. The Corinthian Report of Titus 

5 For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had 
no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, 
within were fears. 6 Nevertheless God, that comforteth those 



1 Lev. 26:12. 2 Isa. 52:11. 

3 Chapter 6:14 — 7:1 — This is believed with great probability to be a 
letter formerly addressed to Corinth and later inserted here, possibly by Paul 
himself. Paul refers to just such a letter in I. Cor. 5:9. 

Chapter 6:14-7:6 



412 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus; 7 and 
not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was 
comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your 
mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the 
more. 



b. The Previous Correspondence 

8 For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, 
though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath 
made you sorry, though it were but for a season. 9 Now I rejoice, 
not that you were made sorry, but that you sorrowed to repen- 
tance: for you were made sorry after a godly manner, that you 
might receive damage by us in nothing. 10 For godly sorrow 
worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the 
sorrow of the world worketh death. 11 For behold this self- 
same thing, that you sorrowed after a godly sort, what careful- 
ness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, 
what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, 
what zeal, yea, what revenge. In all things you have approved 
yourselves to be clear in this matter. 12 Wherefore, though I 
wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, 
nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you 
in the sight of God might appear unto you. 



c. The Triumph of Titus at Corinth 

13 Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and 
exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because 
his spirit was refreshed by you all. 14 For if I have boasted 
any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spoke 
all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before 
Titus, is found a truth. 15 And his inward affection is more 
abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience 
of you all, how with fear and trembling you received him. 16 
I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things. 

Chapter 7:7-16 






Part ®&m 

The Instruction Concerning the 
Collection 



THE COLLECTION FOR THE POOR AT JERUSALEM 
THE GOSPEL OF GIVING AND RECEIVING 

a. The Example of Macedonia 

Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God 
bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; 1 2 how that in a 
great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep 
poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. 3 For 
to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they 
were willing of themselves ; 4 praying us with much intreaty that 
we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the 
ministering to the saints. 5 And this they did, not as we hoped, 
but first gave their own sevles to the Lord, and unto us by the 
will of God. 6 Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had 
begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also. 7 
Therefore, as you abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, 
and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see 
that you abound in this grace also. 



b. The Example of our Lord Jesus Christ 

8 I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the for- 
wardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. 9 
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though 
he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that you through his 
poverty might be rich. 10 And herein I give my advice: for this 
is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but 
also to be forward a year ago. 11 Now therefore perform the 
doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be 
a performance also out of that which you have. 12 For if there 
be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man 

1 At Philippi, Thessalonica and Bercea, founded by Paul on his second 
Missionary Journey. 

413 Chapter 8:1-12 



414 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

hath, and not according to that he hath not. 13 For I mean 
not that other men be eased, and you burdened: 14 but by an 
equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply 
for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for 
your want: that there may be equality: 15 as it is written: 

* * * 

"He that had gathered much had nothing over; 
And he that had gathered little had no lack." l 



c. The Mission of Titus and the Brother 

16 But thanks be to God, who put the same earnest care into 
the heart of Titus for you. 17 For indeed he accepted the 
exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went 
unto you. 18 And we have sent with him the brother, 2 whose 
praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches; 19 and 
not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel 
with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory 
of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind: 20 avoid- 
ing this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which 
is administered by us: 21 providing for honest things, not only 
in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. 22 And we 
have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes 
proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, 
upon the great confidence which I have in you. 23 Whether 
any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper con- 
cerning you : or our brethren be inquired of, they are the messengers 
of the churches, and the glory of Christ. 24 Wherefore show 
ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and 
of our boasting on your behalf. 



d. The Importance of the Collection 

9:1 For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is super- 
fluous for me to write to you: 2 for I know the forwardness of 
your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that 
Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very 
many. 3 Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you 
should be in vain in this behalf; that as I said, you may be ready: 
4 lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you 
unprepared, we [that we say not, you] should be ashamed in 
this same confident boasting. 5 Therefore I thought it necessary 
to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and 

1 Ex. 16:18. 2 Probably Luke. 

Chapter 8:13-9:5 






9tf The Second Epistle to the Corinthians 415 

make up beforehand your bounty, whereof you had notice before, 
that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as 
of covetousness. 



e. The Gospel of Giving 

6 But this I say, He that soweth sparingly shall reap also 
sparingly; and he that soweth bountifully shall reap also bounti- 
fully. 7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, 
so let him give; nor grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a 
cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound 
toward you; that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, 
may abound to every good work, 9 [As it is written : 

* * * 

"He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given 
to the poor : 
His righteousness remaineth for ever," * 
* 

10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister 
bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase 
the fruits of your righteousness]; 11 being enriched in every 
thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving 
to God. 12 For the administration of this service not only 
supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many 
thanksgivings unto God; 13 while by the experiment of this 
ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto 
the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, 
and unto all men; 14 and by their prayer for you, who long 
after you for the exceeding grace of God in you. 15 Thanks 
be unto God for his unspeakable gift. 

iPs. 112:9. 

Chapter 9:6-15 



Part four 

The Instruction Concerning the 
Ministry of Paul 



THE GREAT APOLOGY OF PAUL 

THE APOSTLE'S DEFENCE OF HIS MINISTRY 

a. The Authority of Paul as an Apostle 

Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gen- 
tleness of Christ, who in presence x am base among you, but 
being absent am bold toward you: 2 but I beseech you, that I 
may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, where- 
with I think to be bold against some, who think of us as if we 
walked according to the flesh. 3 For though we walk in the 
flesh, we do not war after the flesh 4 [For the weapons of our 
warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling 
down of strongholds]: 5 casting down imaginations, and every 
high thing that exalt eth itself against the knowledge of God, 
and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of 
Christ; 6 and having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, 
when your obedience is fulfilled. 7 Do you look on things after 
the outward appearance ? If any man trust to himself that he is 
Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, 
even so are we Christ's. 8 For though I should boast somewhat 
more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edifica- 
tion, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed: 9 
that I may not seem as if I would terrify you with letters. 10 
"For his letters," say they, "are weighty and powerful; but his 
bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible." 11 Let 
such a one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters, 
when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are 
present. 12 For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or 
compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but 
they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing them- 
selves among themselves, are not wise. 

1 Or, in outward appearance. 

Chapter 10:1-12 



416 



10:13 The Second Epistle to the Corinthians 417 

b. The Area of Paul's Ministry 

13 But we will not boast of things without our measure, but 
according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed 
to us, a measure to reach even unto you. 14 For we stretch not 
ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto 
you : for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel 
of Christ: 15 not boasting of things without our measure, 
that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith 
is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our 
rule abundantly, 16 to preach the gospel in the regions beyond 
you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready 
to our hand. 17 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. 
18 For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the 
Lord commendeth. 

c. The Loyalty of Paul to Christ 

11:1 Would to God you could bear with me a little in my 
folly: and indeed bear * with me. 2 For I am jealous over you 
with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, 
that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. 3 But I 
fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through 
his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the sim- 
plicity that is in Christ. 4 For if he that cometh preacheth 
another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if you receive 
another spirit, which you have not received, or another gospel, 
which you have not accepted, you might well bear with him. 3 

5 For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chief est apostles. 

6 But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but 
we have been thoroughly made manifest among you in all things. 



d. The Self-Support of Paul 

7 Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that you 
might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel 
of God freely? 8 I robbed other churches, taking wages of 
them, to do you service. 9 And when I was present with you, 
and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was 
lacking to me the brethren that came from Macedonia supplied: 
and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome 
unto you, and so will I keep myself. 10 As the truth of Christ 
is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting 3 in the regions 



1 Or, you do bear with me. 2 Or, with me. 

8 This boasting shall not be stopped in me. 



Chapter 10:13-11:10 



418 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

of Achaia. 11 Wherefore? because I love you not? Godknoweth. 
12 But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion 
from them that desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they 
may be found even as we. 13 For such are false apostles, de- 
ceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of 
Christ. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed 
into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his 
ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; 
whose end shall be according to their works. 



e. The Record of Paul's Heroism 

16 I say again, let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet 
as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little. 17 That 
which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were fool- 
ishly, in this confidence of boasting. 18 Seeing that many glory 
after the flesh, I will glory also. 19 For you suffer fools gladly, 
seeing that you yourselves are wise. 20 For you suffer, if a man 
bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, 
if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face. 21 I 
speak concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. How- 
beit whereinsoever any is bold, I speak foolishly, I am bold also : 



22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. 
Are they Israelites? So am I. 

Are they the seed of Abraham? So am I. 
* * 

23 Are they ministers of Christ? I speak fool- 

ishly, I am more : 
In labours more abundant, 
In stripes above measure, 
In prisons more frequent, 

In deaths oft. 

* * * 

24 Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes 

save one. 

25 Thrice was I beaten with rods, 
Once was I stoned. 



Thrice I suffered shipwreck, 

A night and a day I have been in the deep ; 

Chapter 10:11-25 



11:26 The Second Epistle to the Corinthians 419 

** * ** 

26 In journeyings often: 
In perils of waters, 
In perils of robbers, 

In perils by my own countrymen, 
In perils by the heathen, 
In perils in the city, 
In perils in the wilderness, 
In perils in the sea, 
In perils among false brethren ; 
** ** ** 

27 In weariness and painfullness, 
In watchings often, 

In hunger and thirst, 

In fastings often, 

In cold and nakedness. 

28 Beside those things that are without, that which 
cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. 

29 Who is weak, and I am not weak ? 
Who is offended, and I burn not ? 

30 If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things 
that concern my infirmities. 

31 The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
who is blessed for ever more, knoweth that I lie not. 

32 In Damascus the governor under Aretas the 
king kept the city of the Damascenes, with a garri- 
son, desirous to apprehend me: 33 and through a 
window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and 
escaped his hands. 1 



f. The Transfiguration of Paul 

12:1 It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I 2 will 
come to visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 I knew a man 
in Christ above fourteen years ago, whether in the body, I cannot 
tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth, 
such an one caught up to the third heaven. 3 3 And I knew 
such a man, whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot 
tell: God knoweth, 4 how that he was caught up into paradise, 
and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful 4 for a man 
to utter. 5 Of such a one will I glory: yet of myself I will not 
glory, but in my infirmities. 6 For though I would desire to 
glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I 

1 Acts 9:24. 2 For I will come. 3 See Acts 22:17. 4 Or, possible. 

Chapter 11:26-12:6 



420 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he 
seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me. 7 And lest I should be 
exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, 
there was given to me a thorn 1 in the flesh, the messenger of 
Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. 8 
For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart 
from me. 9 And he said unto me, "My grace is sufficient for 
thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness." Most 
gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the 
power of God may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure 
in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in 
distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. 



g. The Ministry of Paul at Corinth 

11 I am become a fool in glorying; you have compelled me: 
for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am 
I behind the very chief est apostles, though I am nothing. 12 
Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you 2 in all 
patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. 13 For 
what is it wherein you were inferior to other churches, except 
it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this 
wrong. 14 Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; 
and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but 
you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but 
the parents for the children. 15 And I will very gladly spend 
and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, 
the less I am loved. 16 But be it so, I did not burden you: 
nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile. 17 Did I 
make a gain of you by any of them whom I sent unto you? 18 
I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make 
a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not 
in the same steps ? 

1 Gal. 4:13. 2 Acts 18:lf. 

Chapter 12:7-18 



fhrt IFitjf 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE WARNINGS, SALUTATIONS AND BENEDICTION 

I. THE WARNINGS OF THE APOSTLE 

a. The Sin in the Church 

Again, think you that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak 
before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for 
your edifying. 20 For I fear, lest when I come, I shall not find 
you as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as you 
would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, back- 
bitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: 21 and lest, when I 
come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall 
bewail many that have sinned already, and have not repented 
of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they 
have committed. 



b. The Righteousness in the Church 

13 : 1 This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth 
of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. 2 I 
told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second 
time; and being absent now I write to them that heretofore have 
sinned, and to all others, that, if I come again, I will not spare: 
3 since you seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, who toward you 
is not weak, but is mighty in you. 4 For though he was crucified 
through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we 
also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of 
God toward you. 5 Examine yourselves, whether you are in 
the faith; prove your own selves. Know you not your own 
selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except you are reprobates? 

6 But I trust that you shall know that we are not reprobates. 

7 Now I pray to God that you do no evil; not that we should 
appear approved, but that you should do that which is honest, 
though we are as reprobates. 8 For we can do nothing against 
the truth, but for the truth. 9 Now we are glad, when we are 
weak, and you are strong; and this also we wish, even your per- 
fection. 10 Therefore I write these things, being absent, lest 

421 Chapter 12:19-13:10 



422 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

being present I should use sharpness, according to the power 
that the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction. 



II. THE SALUTATIONS AND BENEDICTION 
a. The Salutations for the Corinthians 

11 Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good com- 
fort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace 

shall be with you. 

* 

12 Greet one another with a holy kiss. 

13 All the saints salute you. 



b. The Apostolic Benediction 

14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen. 

* * * 

* 



The Epistle to the Galatians 



Part <0n? 
The Introduction 



THE DIVINE APOSTLESHIP OF PAUL 

THE SALUTATION 

The Salvation through Jesus Christ 

Paul, an apostle [not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus 
Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead], 
2 and all the brethren that are with me, 1 unto the churches of 
Galatia: 2 3 Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, 
and from our Lord Jesus Christ, 4 who gave himself for our 
sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, accord- 
ing to the will of God and our Father: 5 to whom be glory for 
ever and ever. Amen. 



1 Lord Ramsay and Prof. McGiffert say at Antioch in Syria. 

2 The churches in Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, Derbe, etc. 
Acts 13:12f. 

Chapter 1:1-5 



425 



Part &too 
The Instruction for the Galatians 



§1. THE AUTHORITY OF PAUL AS AN APOSTLE 

I. THE DIVINE CALL TO THE MINISTRY 

a. The True Gospel of Christ 

I marvel that you are so soon removed from him that called 
you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 which 
is not another; but there are some 1 that trouble you, and would 
pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel 
from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which 
we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said 
before, so say I now again, "If any man preach any other gospel 
unto you than that you have received, let him be accursed." 



b. The Call of Paul at Damascus 

10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please 
men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of 
Christ. 11 But I certify unto you, brethren, that the gospel 
which was preached by me is not after man. 12 For I neither 
received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation 
of Jesus Christ. 13 For you have heard of my conversation 
in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I 
persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: 14 and profited 
in the Jews' religion above many of my equals in my own nation, 
being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. 
15 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my birth, 
and called me by his grace, 16 to reveal his Son in me, 2 that I 
might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred 
not with flesh and blood: 17 neither went I up to Jerusalem 
to them that were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, 
and returned again unto Damascus. 



1 Judaic missionaries, such as caused the controversy at Antioch. See 
Acts 15:lf. 

* See "The Conversion of Saul of Tarsus," Acts 9: If. 



427 Chapter 1:6-17 



428 The Greatest Book Ever Writte n Part II 

c. The Visit with Peter at Jerusalem 

18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, 
and abode with him fifteen days. 19 But other of the apostles 
saw I none, save James the Lord's brother. 20 Now the things 
which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not. 21 
Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; 1 22 
and was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea that 
were in Christ: 23 but they had heard only, That he that 
persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once 
he destroyed. 24 And they glorified God in me. 



II. THE AGREEMENT WITH THE APOSTLES 
a. The Action of James, Peter and John 

2:1 Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem 
with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. 2 And I went up 
by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which 
I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them that were 
of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in 
vain. 3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, 
was compelled to be circumcised: 4 and that because of false 
brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out 
our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring 
us into bondage: 5 to whom we gave place by subjection, 
no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue 
with you. 6 But of these who seemed to be somewhat [what- 
soever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth 
no man's person] — for they who seemed to be somewhat in con- 
ference added nothing to me: 7 but contrariwise, when they 
saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto 
me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter 8 [For 
he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the 
circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles] — 9 
and when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, 
perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me 
and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go 
unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. 10 Only 
they would that we should remember the poor; the same which 
I also was forward to do. 



b. The Failure of Peter at Antioch 

11 But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to 
the face, because he was to be blamed. 12 For before that 



1 Acts 9:30. 

Chapter 1:18-2:12 



2:13 The Epistle to the Galatians 429 

certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when 
they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing 
them that were of the circumcision. 13 And the other Jews 
dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also 
was carried away with their dissimulation. 14 But when I saw 
that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the 
gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, "If thou, being a Jew, 
livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why 
compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?" 15 We 
who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, 16 
knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, 
but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus 
Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not 
by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no 
flesh be justified. 17 But if, while we seek to be justified by 
Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ 
the minister of sin? God forbid. 18 For if I build again the 
things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. 19 
For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto 
God. 20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet 
not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life that I now live in the 
flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave 
himself for me. 21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if 
righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. 



§2. THE DOCTRINE OF SALVATION BY FAITH 

THE GOSPEL IN THE COVENANT AND LAW 

a. The Covenant with Abraham 

3:1 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that you 
should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath 
been evidently set forth, crucified among you? 2 This only 
would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of 
the law, or by the hearing of faith? 3 Are you so foolish? having 
begun in the Spirit, are you now made perfect by the flesh? 4 
Have you suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. 
5 He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh 
miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by 
the hearing of faith? 6 Even as Abraham believed God, and 
it was accounted to him for righteousness. 7 Know ye there- 
fore that they that are of faith, the same are the children of 
Abraham. 8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would 
justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel 
unto Abraham, saying, "In thee shall all nations be blessed." 
9 So then they that are of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. 

Chapter 2:13-3:9 



430 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the 
curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one that continueth 
not in all things that are written in the book of the law to do 
them." * 11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight 
of God, is evident: for "The just shall live by faith." 2 12 And 
the law is not of faith: but, "The man that doeth them shall live 
in them." 3 13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the 
law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every 
one that hangeth on a tree:" 4 14 that the blessing of Abraham 
might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ ; that we might 
receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. 



b. The Confirmation of the Covenant 

15 Brethren, I speak after the manner of men: Though it 
be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disan- 
nulleth it, or addeth thereto. 16 Now to Abraham and his seed 
were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of 
many; but as of one, "And to thy seed," 6 which is Christ. 17 
And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before 
of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty 
years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise 
of none effect. 18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is 
no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise. 
19 Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of 
transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise 
was made: and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a me- 
diator. 20 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God 
is one. 21 Is the law then against the promises of God? God 
forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given 
life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. 22 But 
the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise 
by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. 



c. The Purpose of the Mosaic Law 

23 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut 
up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. 24 
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, 
that we might be justified by faith. 25 But after that faith is 
come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. 26 For you are 
all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as 
many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on 

1 Deut. 27:26. 2 Hab. 2:4. s Lev. 18:5. * Deut. 21:23. 

e Gen. 13:15. 

Chapter 3:10-27 



3:28 The Epistle to the Galatians 431 

Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither 
bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for you are all 
one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ's, then are you 
Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. 



d. The Children of God 

4 : 1 Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, diff ereth 
nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all; 2 but is under 
tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. 3 
Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the 
elements of the world: 4 but when the fulness of the time was 
come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under 
the law, 5 to redeem them that were under the law, that we 
might receive the adoption of sons. 6 And because you are 
sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, 
crying, "Abba, Father." 7 Wherefore thou art no more a 
servant, but a son and if a son, then an heir of God through 
Christ. 



§3. THE DECLINE OF THE GALATIAN CHURCHES 

THE INFLUENCE OF JITDAIZING MISSIONARIES 

a. The Bondage of the Mosaic Law 

8 Howbeit then, when you knew not God, you did service 
unto them that by nature are no gods. 9 But now, after that 
you have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn 
you again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto you 
desire again to be in bondage? 10 You observe days, and months, 
and times, and years. Ill am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed 
upon you labour in vain. 



b. The Danger of False Teachers 

12 Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as you are: 
you have not injured me at all. 13 You know how through 
infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the 
first. 14 And my temptation which was in my flesh you de- 
spised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, 
even as Christ Jesus. 15 Where is then the blessedness you 
spoke of? for I bear you record, that if it had been possible, you 
would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them 
to me. 16 Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell 
you the truth? 17 They zealously affect you, but not well; 
yea, they would exclude you, that you might affect them. 18 

Chapter 3:28-4:18 



432 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, 
and not only when I am present with you. 19 My little children, 
of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, 
20 I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; 
for I stand in doubt of you. 

c. The Allegory of Isaac and Ishmael 

21 Tell me, you that desire to be under the law, do you not 
hear the law? 22 For it is wirtten, that Abraham had two 
sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. 23 
But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but 
he of the freewoman was by promise. 24 Which things are an 
allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from mount 
Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Hagar. 25 For 
this Hagar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem 
which now is, and is in bondage with her children. 26 But 
Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. 

27 For it is written : 

* * * 

"Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not; 
Break forth and cry, thou that travailest not : 
For the desolate hath many more children 
Than she hath who hath a husband." l 
* 

28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. 

29 But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him 
that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. 30 Nevertheless, 
what saith the scripture? "Cast out the bondwoman and her 
son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the 
son of the freewoman." 3 31 So then, brethren, we are not 
children of the bondwoman, but of the free. 



Usa. 54:1. 2 Gen. 21:10f. 

Chapter 4:19-31 



Part ®&m 
The Exhortation for the Galatians 



THE FREEDOM AND RESPONSIBILITY OF THE GOSPEL 

I. THE LIBERTY THAT IS IN JESUS CHRIST 

The Ministry of the Holy Spirit 

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath 
made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bond- 
age. 2 Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if you be circumcised, 
Christ shall profit you nothing. 3 For I testify again to every 
man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. 
4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are 
justified by the law; you are fallen from grace. 5 For we through 
the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. 6 For in 
Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncir- 
cumcision; but faith that worketh by love. 7 You did run well; 
who did hinder you that you should not obey the truth? 8 
This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you. 9 A little 
leaven leaveneth the whole lump. 10 I have confidence in you 
through the Lord, that you will not be otherwise minded: but 
he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be. 
11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet 
suffer persecution? then has the offence of the cross ceased. 12 
I would that they were even cut off that trouble you. 



H. THE DUTIES OF THE CHURCH 
a. The Right Use of Freedom 

13 For, brethren, you have been called unto liberty; only 
use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve 
one another. 14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even 
in this: "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." 1 15 But 
if you bite and devour one another, take heed that you be not 
consumed one of another. 



* Lev. 19:18. 

433 Chapter 5:1-15 



434 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

b. The Works of the Flesh and of the Spirit 

16 This I say then, walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfil 
the lusts of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, 
and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one 
to the other: so that you cannot do the things that you would. 

18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 

19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these: 
adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 idolatry, 
witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, 
heresies, 21 envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and 
such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you 
in time past, that they that do such things shall not inherit the 
kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, 
peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 meekness, 
temperance: against such there is no law. 24 And they that 
are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 
Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, 
envying one another. 

c. The Duty of Christian Charity 

6 : 1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, you that are 
spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering 
thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 2 Bear ye one another's 
burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. 3 For if a man think 
himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth him- 
self. 4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall 
he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. 5 For 
every man shall bear his own burden. 



d. The Law of the Harvest 

6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him 
that teacheth in all good things. 7 Be not deceived; God is 
not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also 
reap. 8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap 
corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit 
reap life everlasting. 9 And let us not be weary in well doing; 
for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. 10 As we have 
therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially 
unto them who are of the household of faith. 

Chapter 5:16-6:10 



Part IFour 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE GLORY OF PAUL IN THE CROSS OF CHRIST 

THE AUTOGRAPH AND BENEDICTION 

a. The Autograph of Paul 

You see how large a letter I have written unto you with my 

own hand. 

* 

12 As many as desire to make a fair show in the flesh, they 
constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer 
persecution for the cross of Christ. 13 For neither they them- 
selves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you 
circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. 

* 

14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of 
our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, 
and I unto the world. 15 For in Christ Jesus neither circum- 
cision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. 

* 

16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on 
them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God. 

* 

17 From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my 
body the marks of the Lord Jesus. 



b. The Apostle's Benediction 

18 Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your 

spirit. Amen. 

* * * 

* * 

* 



435 



The Epistle to the Ephesians 



Part <g)nf 
The Introduction 



THE GREAT SAVIOUR OF THE WORLD 

THE SALUTATION, THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER 
a. The Salutation 

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the 
saints that are at Ephesus, 1 and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: 
2 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from 
the Lord Jesus Christ. 



b. The Seven-Fold Thanksgiving 

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 

who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places 

in Christ: 

* 

4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation 

of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before 

him in love : 

* 

5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by 
Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his 
will, 6 to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath 
made us accepted in the Beloved: 

* 

7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the for- 
giveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 8 wherein 
he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 9 
having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according 
to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 

* 

10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might 
gather together in one all things in Christ, both that are in heaven, 
and that are on earth; even in him; 11 in whom also we have 
obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the 

1 Some very ancient authorities omit at Ephesus. The letter was written 
by Paul during his first Roman imprisonment. — A. D. 59-61. 

439 Chapter 1:1-11 



440 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

purpose of him who workest all things after the counsel of his 
own will ; 

* 

12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first 
trusted in Christ; 13 in whom you also trusted, after that you 
heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: 



In whom also after that you believed, you were sealed with 
that Holy Spirit of promise, 14 which is the earnest of our 
inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, 
unto the praise of his glory. 



c. The Prayer for the Ephesians 

15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord 
Jesus, and love unto all the saints, 16 cease not to give thanks 
for you, making mention of you in my prayers; 17 that the God 
of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto 
you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him : 
18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you 
may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches 
of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the 
exceeding greatness of his power toward us who believe, according 
to the working of his mighty power, 20 which he wrought in 
Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his 
own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all prin- 
cipality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name 
that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is 
to come: 22 and hath put all things under his feet, and gave 
him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 which is 
his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. 

Chapter 1:12-23 



Part &i»0 
The Instruction for the Ephesians 



THE SALVATION OF THE GENTILES 

I. THE DOCTRINE OF JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH 

a. The Salvation of Men from Sin 

And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and 
sins; 2 wherein in time past you walked according to the course 
of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the 
spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3 
among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in 
the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the 
mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. 
4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith 
he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened 
us together with Christ [by grace are you saved], 6 and hath 
raised us up together, and made us to sit together in heavenly 
places in Christ Jesus: 7 that in the ages to come he might 
show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward 
us through Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace are you saved through 
faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 not of 
works, lest any man should boast. 10 For we are his workman- 
ship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath 
before ordained that we should walk in them. 



b. The Salvation of Men unto Righteousness 

11 Wherefore remember, that you being in time past Gentiles 
in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is 
called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 that 
at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the 
commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenant of 
promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: 13 but 
now in Christ Jesus you who sometimes were afar off are made 
nigh by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who hath 
made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of parti- 
tion between us; 15 having abolished in the flesh the enmity, 
even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to 

441 Chapter 2:1-15 



442 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 16 
and that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the 
cross, having slain the enmity thereby: 17 and came and 
preached peace to you that were afar off, and to them that were 
nigh. 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit 
unto the Father. 19 Now therefore you are no more strangers 
and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the house- 
hold of God ; 20 and are built upon the foundation of the apostles 
and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 
21 in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto 
a holy temple in the Lord: 22 in whom you also are builded 
together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. 



II. THE DOCTRINE OF SANCTIFICATION BY THE SPIRIT 
The Ministry of Paul to the Ephesians 

3:1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for 
you Gentiles, 1 — 2 if you have heard of the dispensation 2 of the 
grace of God which is given me toward you: 3 how that by 
revelation he made known unto me the mystery [as I wrote 
before in few words, 4 whereby, when you read, you may under- 
stand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ], 5 which in 
other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is 
now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; 
6 that the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same body, 
and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel : 7 whereof 
I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God 
given unto me by the effectual working of his power. 8 Unto 
me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, 
that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches 
of Christ; 9 and to make all men see what is the fellowship of 
the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been 
hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: 10 to the 
intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly 
places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of 
God, 11 according to the eternal purpose which he purposed 
in Christ Jesus our Lord: 12 in whom we have boldness and 
access with confidence by the faith of him. 13 Wherefore I 
desire that you faint not at my tribulations for you, which is 
your glory. — 14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father 
of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 of whom the whole family in heaven 
and earth is named, 16 that he would grant you, according 
to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his 
Spirit in the inner man; 17 that Christ may dwell in your 

1 This sentence is resumed at Verse 14. 2 Or, stewardship. 

Chapter 2:16-3:17 



3:18 The Epistle to the Ephesians 443 

hearts by faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 
18 may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, 
and length, and depth, and height; 19 and to know the love 
of Christ, that passeth knowledge, that you might be filled with 
all the fulness of God. 



b. The Doxology 

20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly 
above all that we ask or think, according to the power that 
worketh in us, 21 unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus 
throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. 



Part &|m 

The Exhortation for the Ephesians 



THE GRACIOUS APPEAL OF PAUL 

I. THE APPEAL TO THE ENTIRE BODY OF BELIEVERS 

a. The Importance of Christian Unity 

I therefore/ the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that you 
walk worthy of the vocation wherewith you are called, 2 with 
all lowliness and fmeekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one 
another with love; 3 endeavoring to keep the unity of the 
Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, 
even as you are called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, 
one faith,fone baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is 
above all,*and through all, and in you all. 7 But unto every 
one of|us|is given grace according to the measure of the gift of 
Christ. 8 ^Wherefore he saith: 

* * * 

''When he ascended up on high, he led captivity 
captive, 
And gave gifts unto men." l 
* 

9 [Now he that ascended, what is it but that he also descended 
first into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He that descended is 
the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he 
might fill all things.] 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, 
prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 
12 for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, 
for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 till we all come in 
the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, 
unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness 
of Christ: 14 that we henceforth be no more children, tossed 
to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by 
the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in 
wait to deceive: 15 but speaking the truth in love, may grow 
up into him in all things, who is the head, even Christ: 16 from 
whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by 

^s. 68:18. 

445 Chapter 4:1-16 



446 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual 
working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the 
body unto the edifying of itself in love. 



b. The Importance of the Spiritual Life 

17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you 
henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of 
their mind, 18 having the understanding darkened, being 
alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is 
in them, because of the blindness of their heart: 19 who being 
past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, 
to work all uncleanness with greediness. 20 But you have 
not so learned Christ; 21 if so be that you have heard him, 
and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 that 
you put off concerning the former conversation the old man, 
which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 and be 
renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 and that you put on the 
new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true 
holiness. 



c. The Importance of the Moral and Social Life 

25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man the truth 
with his neighbor: for we are members one of another. 26 Be 
ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath; 
27 neither give place to the devil. 28 Let him that stole steal 
no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands 
the thing that is good, that he may have to give to him that 
needeth. 29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your 
mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it 
may minister grace unto the hearers. 30 And grieve not the 
Holy Spirit of God, whereby you are sealed unto the day of 
redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and 
clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice : 
32 and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one 
another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. 



d. The Importance of the Christian Virtues 

5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; 2 
and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given 
himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling 
savor. 3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, and covetousness, 
let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; 4 
neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not 

Chapter 4:17-5:4 



5:5 The Epistle to the Ephesians 447 

convenient: but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know, 
that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man 
who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ 
and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for 
because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the chil- 
dren of disobedience. 7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them. 
8 For you were sometimes darkness, but now are you light in the 
Lord ; walk as children of light 9 [For the fruit of the Spirit is 
in all goodness and righteousness and truth]: 10 proving what 
is acceptable unto the Lord. 1 1 And have no fellowship with the 
unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. 12 For 
it is a shame even to speak of those things that are done by them 
in secret. 13 But all things that are reproved are made manifest 
by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. 14 
Wherefore he saith : 

"Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, 
And Christ shall give thee light." x 



e. The Duty of the Hour 

15 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools, but 
as wise, 16 redeeming the time, 2 because the days are evil. 17 
Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will 
of the Lord is. 18 Be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; 
but be filled with the Spirit; 19 speaking to yourselves in 
psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody 
in your heart to the Lord; 20 giving thanks always for all 
things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus 
Christ; 21 submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of 
God. 



H. THE APPEAL TO VARIOUS CLASSES IN THE CHURCH 
a. The Duties of Husbands and Wives 

22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as 
unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, 
even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of 
the body. 24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, 
so let the wives be to their husbands in every thing. 25 Hus- 
bands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, 
and gave himself for it; 26 that he might sanctify and cleanse 
it with the washing of water by the word, 27 that he might 

1 Isa. 60:1. 2 Greek: Buying up the opportunity. 

Chapter 5:5-27 



448 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, 
or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 
28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He 
that loveth his wife loveth himself. 29 For no man ever yet 
hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the 
Lord the church: 30 for we are members of his body, of his 
flesh, and of his bones. 31 For this cause shall a man leave his 
father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they 
two shall be one flesh. 32 This is a great mystery : but I speak 
concerning Christ and the church. 33 Nevertheless let every 
one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the 
wife see that she reverence her husband. 



b. The Duties of Parents and Children 

6:1 Children obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. 
2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first command- 
ment with promise; 3 that it may be well with thee, and thou 
mayest live long on the earth. 4 And, ye fathers, provoke not 
your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and 
admonition of the Lord. 



c. The Duties of Masters and Slaves 

5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters accord- 
ing to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your 
heart, as unto Christ; 6 not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; 
but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; 

7 with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: 

8 knowing that whatsoever good things any man doeth, the same 
shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. 9 And, 
ye masters, do the same thing unto them, forbearing threatening: 
knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there 
respect of persons with him. 



ni. THE APPEAL TO THE CHURCH AS AN ARMY 
The Christian in Seven-Fold Armor 

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the 
power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that 
you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against prin- 
cipalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness 
of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 

Chapter 5:28-6:13 



6:14 The Epistle to the Ephesians 449 

Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that you may 
be able to withstand in the evil days, and having done all, to stand. 

* * * 

14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about 
with truth, 

And having on the breastplate of righteous- 
ness ; 

* 

15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the 
gospel of peace : 

16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, where- 
with you shall be able to quench all the fiery darts 

of the wicked. 

* 

17 And take the helmet of salvation; 

* 

And the sword of the Spirit, which is the word 

of God: 

* 

18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication 
in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all per- 
severance and supplication for all saints; 19 and 
for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that 
I may open my mouth boldly, and to make known 
the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an 
ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak 
boldly, as I ought to speak. 

Chapter 6: 14-20 



Part Four 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE SITUATION OF PAUL AT ROME 

THE COMMENDATION, SALUTATION AND BENEDICTION 

a. The Commendation of Tychicus 

But that you also may know my affairs, and how I do, Tychicus, 
a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make 
known to you all things: 22 whom I have sent unto you for 
the same purpose, that you might know our affairs, and that he 
might comfort your hearts. 



b. The Apostle's Salutation 

23 Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God 
the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 



c. The Benediction 

24 Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in 

sincerity. Amen. 

* * * 

* * 



451 



The Epistle to the Philippians 



Part <$tif 
The Introduction 



THE GREAT LOVE OF PAUL FOR THE PHILIPPIANS 

THE SALUTATION, THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER 

a. The Salutation 

Paul and Timothy, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the 
saints in Christ Jesus that are at Philippi, with the bishops and 
deacons : 2 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, 
and/rtftw the Lord Jesus Christ. 



b. The Thanksgiving 

3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 always 
in every prayer of mine for you all making request with you, 

5 for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; 

6 being confident of this very thing, that he that hath begun 
a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ : 

7 even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have 
you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the 
defence and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers of 
my grace. 8 For God is my witness, how greatly I long after 
you all in the tender mercies of Jesus Christ. 



c. The Apostle's Prayer 

9 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and 
more in knowledge and in all judgment; 10 that you may 
approve things that are excellent; that you may be sincere and 
without offence till the day of Christ; 11 being filled with 
the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the 
glory and praise of God. 

1 Written toward the close of the first Roman imprisonment of Paul. 

Chapter 1: 1-11 



455 



Part $too 
The Instruction for the Philippians 



THE HUMBLE MIND OF JESUS CHRIST 

I. THE MINISTRY OF PAUL IN ROME 

a. The Providential Furtherance of the Gospel in Rome 

But I would that you should understand, brethren, that the 
things that happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the 
furtherance of the gospel; 13 so that my bonds in Christ are 
manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; 14 and many 
of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are 
much more bold to speak the word without fear. 15 Some 
indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of 
good will: 16 the one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, 
supposing to add affliction to my bonds; 17 but the other of 
love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. 18 
What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, 
or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, 
and will rejoice. 19 For I know that this shall turn to my salva- 
tion through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus 
Christ, 20 according to my earnest expectation and my hope, 
that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as 
always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether 
it be by life or by death. 21 For to me to live is Christ, and to 
die is gain. 22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my 
labour: yet what I shall choose I know not. 



b. The Mind of the Apostle Paul 

23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, 
and to be with Christ; which is far better: 24 nevertheless 
to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. 25 And having 
this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you 
all for your furtherance and joy of faith; 26 that your rejoicing 
may be more abundant in Christ for me by my coming to you 
again. 27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel 
of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I 
may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with 

457 Chapter 1:12-27 



458 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; 28 and 
in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an 
evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of 
God. 29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not 
only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; 30 having 
the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me. 



c. The Humble Mind of Christ 

2 : 1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any 
comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any tender 
mercies and compassions, 2 fulfil ye my joy, that you be 
likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one 
mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but 
in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than them- 
selves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every 
man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, 
which was also in Christ Jesus; 6 who, being in the form of 
God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God : 7 but made 
himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, 
and was made in the likeness of men: 8 and being found in 
fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto 
death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath 
highly exalted him, and given him a name that is above every 
name: 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, 
of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 
11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is 
Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 



d. The Mind of the Philippians 

12 Wherefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not 
as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work 
out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13 For it is 
God who worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. 
14 Do all things without murmuring and disputing: 15 that 
you may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without 
rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among 
whom you shine as lights in the world; 16 holding forth the 
word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have 
not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. 17 Yea, and if I be 
offered 1 upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and 
rejoice with you all. 18 For the same cause also do you joy, 
and rejoice with me. 

1 Poured forth. 

Chapter 1:28-2:18 



2:19 The Epistle to the Philippians 459 

II. THE MISSIONARY PLANS FOR PHILIPPI 
a. The Mission of Timothy 

19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy shortly 
unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your 
state. 20 For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally 
care for your state. 21 For all seek their own, not the things 
that are Jesus Christ's. 22 But you know the proof of him, that, 
as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. 
23 Him therefore I hope to send presently, as soon as I shall 
see how it will go with me. 24 But I trust in the Lord that I 
also myself will come shortly. 



b. The Return of Epaphroditus to Philippi 

25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus 
my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but 
your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. 26 For 
he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because you 
had heard that he had been sick. 27 For indeed he was sick 
nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him 
only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. 

28 I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when you see 
him again, you may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful. 

29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and 
hold such in reputation: 30 because for the work of Christ he 
was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack 
of service toward me. 

Chapter 2:19-30 



Part ®f)m 
The Exhortation for the Philippians 



THE HUMBLE MIND OF THE APOSTLE 

I. THE LOSS AND GAIN IN CHRIST 
a. The Great Renunciation and Ambition of Paul 

Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same 
things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. 

2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. 

3 For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, 
and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. 

4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any 

other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the 

flesh, I more: 

* * * 

5 Circumcised the eighth day, 
Of the tribe of Benjamin, 

A Hebrew of the Hebrews, 

As touching the law, a Pharisee; 

6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; 
Touching the righteousness which is in the 

law, blameless. 

7 But what things were gain to me, those 
I counted loss for Christ. 

8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency 
of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord : for whom I have suf- 
fered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I 
may win Christ, 9 and be found in him, not having my own 
righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the 
faith of Christ, the righteousness that is of God by faith: 10 that 

I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellow- 
ship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; 

II if by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the 
dead; 12 Not as though I had already attained, either were 
already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that 
for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, 
I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, 
forgetting those things that are behind, and reaching forth unto 

461 Chapter 3:1-13 



462 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

those things that are before, 14 I press toward the mark for 
the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let us 
therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: for if in any- 
thing you be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto 
you. 16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let 
us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. 



b. The Example of Paul 

17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them that 
walk so as you have us for an example. 18 (For many walk, of 
whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, 
that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 whose end 
is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their 
shame, who mind earthly things). 20 For our conversation 
is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord 
Jesus Christ: 21 who shall change our vile body, that it may 
be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working 
whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. 



c. The Importance of Stedfastness 

4:1 Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved, and longed for, 
my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. 



II. THE LIFE AND WORK OF THE CHURCH 
a. The Appeal for Harmony and Co-operation 

2 I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of 
the same mind in the Lord. 3 And I intreat thee also, true 
yokefellow, help those women that labour with me in the gospel, 
with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose 
names are in the book of life. 



b. The Care of the Spiritual Life 

4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. 5 
Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at 
hand. 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer 
and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made 
known unto God. 

c. The Doxology 

7 And the peace of God that passeth all understanding, shall 
keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 

Chapter 3:13-4:7 



Part Four 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE PERSONAL WORD OF THE APOSTLE 

THE GENEROSITY OF THE PHILIPPIANS 
a. The Seven-Fold Excellence 

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, 
* 

Whatsoever things are honest, 

Whatsoever things are just, 

Whatsoever things are pure, 

* 
Whatsoever things are lovely, 

Whatsoever things are of good report, 
* 

If there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, 
think on these things. 9 Those things that you 
have both learned, and received, and heard, and 
seen in me, do; and the God of peace shall be with 
you. 



b. The Generosity of the Philippians 

10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last 
your care of me hath nourished again; wherein you were also 
careful, but you lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in 
respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, 
therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and 
I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am in- 
structed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to 
suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ who strength- 
ened me. 14 Notwithstanding you have well done, that you 
did communicate with my affliction. 15 Now you Philippians 

463 Chapter 4:8-15 



464 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed 
from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning 
giving and receiving, but you only. 16 For even in Thessalonica 
you sent once and again unto my necessity. 17 Not because I 
desire a gift : but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. 
18 But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of 
Epaphroditus the things that were sent from you, an odour of a 
sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. 19 
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in 
glory by Christ Jesus. 

c. The Doxology 

20 Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. 
Amen. 



II. THE SALUTATIONS AND BENEDICTION 
a. The Salutations 

21 Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. 

* 

The brethren that are with me greet you. 

* 

22 All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar's 
household. 



b. The Benediction 

23 The Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 

* * * 

* * 

* 



The Epistle to the Colossians 



Part <fi)n? 
The Introduction 1 



THE REPORT OF EPAPHRAS 

THE SALUTATION, THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER 

a. The Salutation 

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy 
our brother, 2 to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ 
who are at Colossas: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God 
our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 



b. The Thanksgiving 

3 We gave thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus 
Christ, praying always for you, 4 since we heard of your faith 
in Christ Jesus, and of the love which you have to all the saints, 
5 for the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof you 
heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; 6 which 
is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth 
fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day you heard of it, and 
knew the grace of God in truth : 7 as you also learned of Epaphras 
our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; 
8 who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit. 



c. The Prayer of the Apostle 

9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not 
cease to pray for you, and to desire that you might be filled 
with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual under- 
standing; 10 that you might walk worthy of the Lord unto all 
pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in 
the knowledge of God ; 1 1 strengthened with all might, according 
to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with 
joyfulness; 12 giving thanks unto the Father, who hath made 

x Written during the first Roman imprisonment of Paul, A. D. 59-61. 

467 Chapter 1:1-12 



468 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light; 
13 who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath 
translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: x 14 in whom we 
have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 
15 who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every 
creature. 



1 The Son of his love. 

Chapter 1:13-15 



Part ©too 
The Instruction for the Colossians 



THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST 

I. THE PRE-EMINENCE OF JESUS CHRIST 

a. The Pre-Eminence of Christ in the Universe 

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and 
that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, 
or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created 
by him, and for him: 17 and he is before all things, and by 
him all things consist. 



b. The Pre-Eminence of Christ in the Church 

18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the 
beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might 
have the pre-eminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him 
should all fulness dwell; 20 and, having made peace through 
the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; 
by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. 
21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your 
mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled 22 in the 
body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblame- 
able and unreproveable in his sight: 23 if you continue in the 
faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope 
of the gospel, which you have heard, and which was preached 
to every creature that is under heaven. 



H. THE MINISTRY OF PAUL 
a. The Rejoicing of Paul for the Colossians 

Whereof I Paul am made a minister; 24 who now rejoice in 
my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the 
afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the 
church: 25 whereof I am made a minister, according to the 
dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil 1 the 

1 Or, fully to preach the word of God. , 

469 Chapter 1:16-25 



470 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

word of God; 26 even the mystery that hath been hid from 
ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his 
saints: 27 to whom God would make known what is the riches 
of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ 
in you, the hope of glory: 28 whom we preach, warning every 
man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present 
every man perfect in Christ Jesus: 29 whereunto I also labour, 
striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. 



b. The Knowledge of the Mystery of Christ 

2:1 For I would that you knew what great conflict 1 I have 
for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not 
seen my face in the flesh ; 2 that their hearts may be comforted, 
being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance 
of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, 
and of the Father, and of Christ; 3 in whom are hid all the 
treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 And this I say, lest any 
man should beguile you with enticing words. 5 For though I 
be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and 
beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. 

1 Or, care. 

Chapter 1:26-2:5 



Part &6m 
The Exhortation for the Colossians 



THE LIFE IN CHRIST 

1. THE DOCTRINAL CIRCUMSPECTION 

a. The Daily Life in Christ 

As you have therefore received Jesus Christ the Lord, so walk 
ye in him : 7 rooted and built up in him, and established in the 
faith, as you have been taught, abounding therein with thanks- 
giving. 



b. The Effectual Atonement of Christ 

8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and 
vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of 
the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwelleth all the 
fulness of the godhead bodily. 10 And you are complete in 
him, who is the head of all principality and power: 11 in whom 
also you are circumcised with the circumcision made without 
hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the cir- 
cumcision of Christ: 12 buried with him in baptism, wherein 
also you are risen with him through the faith of the operation 
of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 13 And you, being 
dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he 
quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; 
14 blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against 
us, that was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing 
it to his cross: 15 and having spoiled principalities and powers, 
he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it. ' 



c. The Failure of Jewish Ordinances 

16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or 
in respect of a holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath 
days: 17 which are a shadow of things to come; but the body 
is of Christ. 18 Let no man beguile you of your reward in a 

1 Or, in himself. 

471 Chapter 2:6-18 



472 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into 
those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his 
fleshly mind, 19 and not holding the Head, from which all 
the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, 
and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God. 



d. The Failure of Human Wisdom 

20 Wherefore if you are dead with Christ from the rudiments 
of the world, why, as though living in the world, are you subject 
to ordinances 21 [Touch not, taste not, handle not; 22 which 
all are to perish with the using], after the commandments and 
doctrines of men? 23 Which things have indeed a show of 
wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting 1 of the 
body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh. 



e. The Importance of Consecration 

3 : 1 If you then are risen with Christ, seek those things that 
are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 
Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 
3 For you are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 
When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall you also 
appear with liim in glory. 



H. THE MORAL CIRCUMSPECTION 
a. The Old Man and the New 

5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth: 
fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, 
and covetousness, which is idolatry; 6 for which things' sake 
the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: 7 in 
the which you also walked some time, when you lived in them. 
8 But now you also put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blas- 
phemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Lie not 
one to another, seeing that you have put off the old man with 
his deeds; 10 and have put on the new man, which is renewed 
in knowledge after the image of him that created him : 1 1 where 
there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, 
barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. 



b. The Putting on of Christ 

12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, a 
heart of compassion, 2 kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, 

1 Or, punishment. 2 A. V. bowels of mercies. 

Chapter 2:19-3:12 



3:13 The Epistle to the Colossians 473 

longsuff ering ; 13 forbearing one another, and forgiving one 
another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ 
forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put 
on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the 
peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also you are called 
in one body; and be ye thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell 
in you richly in all wisdom ; teaching and admonishing one another 
in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in 
your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatsoever you do in word 
or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to 
God and the Father by him. 



ni. THE SOCIAL CIRCUMSPECTION 
The Duties of the Family 

18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it 
is fit in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not 
bitter against them. 20 Children, obey your parents in all 
things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. 21 Fathers, 
provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged. 



b. The Duties of Masters and Slaves 

22 Servants, obey in all things your masters * according to the 
flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of 
heart, fearing God: 23 and whatsoever you do, do it heartily, 2 
as to the Lord, and not unto men; 24 knowing that of the 
Lord you shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for you 
serve the Lord Christ. 25 But he that doeth wrong shall receive 
for the wrong that he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. 
4:1 Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and 
equal; knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. 



IV. THE CONCLUDING EXHORTATION 

The Duty to God and Man 

2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanks- 
giving; 3 withal praying also for us, that God would open 
unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for 
which I am also in bonds: 4 that I may make it manifest, as 
I ought to speak. 5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are with- 
out, redeeming the time. 3 6 Let your speech be always with 
grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to 
answer everv man. 



1 Greek: lords. 2 Greek: from the soul. 

3 Greek: buying up the opportunity. 

Chapter 3:13-4:6 



Part IFour 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE SITUATION OF PAUL AT ROME 

THE COMMENDATIONS, SALUTATIONS AND BENEDICTION 

a. The Commendation of Tychicus and Onesimus 

All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved 
brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord: 
8 whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might 
know your estate, and comfort your hearts; 9 with Onesimus, 
a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall 
make known unto you all things that are done here. 



b. The Salutation of Paul's Companions 

10 Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Mark, 
sister's son to Barnabas [touching whom you received command- 
ments: if he come unto you, receive him], 11 and Jesus who is 
called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my 
fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, who have been a comfort 
unto me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, 
saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, 
that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. 
13 For I bear him record that he hath a great zeal for you, and 
them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis. 14 Luke, 
the beloved physician, and Demas, greeteth you. 



c. The Salutations for the Laodiceans 

15 Salute the brethren that are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, 1 
and the church that is in his 2 house. 16 And when this epistle 
is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the 
Laodiceans; and that you likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. 



1 The Greek may be Nympha. 

2 Some ancient authorities read her. 



475 Chapter 4:7-16 



476 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

d. The Word for Archippus 

17 And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which 
thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it. 



e. The Autograph Salutation of Paul 

18 The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my 
bonds. 



f. The Benediction 
Grace be with you. Amen. 



* * * 
* * 



The First Epistle to the 
Thessalonians 



Part <0n? 
The Introduction 1 



THE FAITH OF THE THESSALONIANS 

THE SALUTATION AND THANKSGIVING 

a. The Salutation 

Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy, unto the church of the Thes- 
salonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ : 
Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the 
Lord Jesus Cerist. 



b. The Thanksgiving 

2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention 
of you in our prayers; 3 remembering without ceasing your 
work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our 
Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; 4 know- 
ing, brethren beloved, your election of God. 5 For our gospel 
came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the 
Holy Spirit, and in much assurance; as you know what manner 
of men we were among you for your sake. 6 And you became 
followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much 
affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit: 7 so that you were 
examples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 For 
from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Mace- 
donia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward 
God is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing. 9 
For they themselves show of us what manner of entering in we 
had unto you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve 
the living and true God; 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, 
whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, who delivered us 
from the wrath to come. 



1 Written from Corinth during the second missionary journey. 

Chapter 1:1-10 



479 



Part (Rtoo 

The Instruction for the 
Thessalonians 



§1. THE ANXIETY OF PAUL FOR THE THESSALONIONS 

I. THE PERSONAL RELATIONS WITH THE CHURCH 

a. The Ministry of Paul at Thessalonica 

For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, 
that it was not in vain: 2 but even after that we had suffered 
before, and were shamefully treated, as you know, at Philippi, ' 
we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God 
with much contention. 3 For our exhortation was not of deceit, 
nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: 4 but as we were allowed of 
God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as 
pleasing men, but God, who trieth our hearts. 5 For neither 
at any time used we nattering words as you know, nor a cloke of 
covet ousness ; God is witness: 6 nor of men sought we glory, 
neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burden- 
some, 2 as the apostles of Christ. 7 But we were gentle among 
you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: 8 so being affec- 
tionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto 
you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because 
you were dear unto us. 9 For you remember, brethren, our 
labour and travail : for labouring night and day, because we would 
not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the 
gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how holily 
and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you 
that believe: 11 as you know how we exhorted and comforted 
and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, 12 1 
that you would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto* 
his kingdom and glory. 



b. The Truth in Christ Jesus 

13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, 
when you received the word of God, which you heard of us, 

1 Acts 16:22. 2 Or, used authority. 

481 Chapter 2:1-13 



482 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

you received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the 
word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. 
14 For you, brethren, became followers of the churches of God 
which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for you also have suffered 
like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the 
Jews: 15 who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own proph- 
ets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are 
contrary to all men: 16 forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles 
that they might be saved, to fill up their sins always; for the 
wrath is come upon them to the uttermost. 



c. The Attempts to Return to Thessalonica 

17 But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time 
in presence, not in heart, endeavored the more abundantly to 
see your face with great desire. 18 Wherefore we would have 
come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered 
us. 19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? 
Are not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his 
coming? 20 For you are our glory and joy. 



d. The Mission of Timothy to Thessalonica 

3 : 1 Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought 
it good to be left at Athens alone; 2 and sent Timothy, our 
brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the 
gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning 
your faith : 3 that no man should be moved by these afflictions : 
for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto. 4 For 
verily, when we were with you, x we told you before that we 
should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, 2 and you know. 
5 For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know 
your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, 
and our labour be in vain. 6 But now when Timothy came 
from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and 
charity, and that you have good remembrance of us always, 
desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you: 7 therefore, 
brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and 
distress by your faith: 8 and now we live, if you stand fast 
in the Lord. 9 For what thanks can we render to God again 
for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before 
our God; 10 night and day praying exceedingly that we might 
see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your 
faith? 



lActs 17:lf. 2 Acts 17:5L 

Chapter 2:14-3:10 



3:11 The First Epistle to the Thessalonians 483 

e. The Two Desires of the Apostle 

11 Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus 
Christ, direct our way unto you. 12 And the Lord make you 
to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward 
all men, even as we do toward you: 13 to the end that he may 
establish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even 
our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his 
saints. 



H. THE SOCIAL LIFE OF THE CHURCH 

a. The Moral Purity of the Congregation 

4 : 1 Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort 
you by the Lord Jesus, that as you have received of us how you 
ought to walk and to please God, so you would abound more and 
more. 2 For you know what commandments we gave you by 
the Lord Jesus. 3 For this is the will of God, even your sancti- 
fication, that you should abstain form fornication: 4 that 
every one of you should know how to possess himself in sancti- 
fication and honour; 5 not in the lust of concupiscence, even 
as the Gentiles who know not God: 6 that no man go beyond 
and defraud 1 his brother in any matter: because that the Lord 
is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and 
testified. 7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but 
unto holiness. 8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not 
man, but God, who hath also given unto us his Holy Spirit. 



b. The Duties of Christian Society 

9 But as touching brotherly love you need not that I write 
unto you : for you yourselves are taught of God to love one another. 
10 And indeed you do it toward all the brethren that are in all 
Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that you increase 
more and more; 11 and that you study to be quiet, and to do 
your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we 
commanded you; 12 that you may walk honestly toward 
them that are without, and that you may have lack of nothing. 



§2. THE SECOND COMING OF JESUS CHRIST 

THE MANNER AND TIME OF JESUS' RETURN 

a. The Manner of the Lord's Return 

13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, con- 
cerning them that are asleep, that you sorrow not, even as others 

1 Or, oppress or overreach. 

Chapter 3:11-4:13 



484 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and 
rose again, even so them also that sleep in Jesus will God bring 
with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, 
that we that are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord 
shall not precede them that are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself 
shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the 
archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ 
shall rise first: 17 then we that are alive and remain shall be 
caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord 
in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore 
comfort one another with these words. 



b. The Time of the Lord's Return 

5:1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, you have 
no need that I write unto you. 2 For yourselves know per- 
fectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 
3 For when they shall say, "Peace and safety," then sudden 
destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with 
child; and they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not 
in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. 5 
You are all the children of light, and the children of the day: 
we are not of the night, nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not 
sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. 7 For they 
that sleep sleep in the night; and they that are drunken are 
drunken in the night. 8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, 
putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet, 
the hope of salvation. 9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, 
but to obtain salvation of our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died 
for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together 
with him. 11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and 
edify one another, even as also you do 

Chapter 4:14-5:11 



Part ${tm 

The Exhortation for the 
Thessalonians 1 



THE DUTIES OF THE THESSALONIANS 

THE CARE OF THE CHURCH 

a. The Duties to the Ministers 

And we beseech you, brethren, to know them that labour 
among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; 
13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. 



b. The Duties Toward One Another 

And be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we exhort you, 
brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, 
support the weak, be patient toward all men. 15 See that none 
render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which 
is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. 



c. The Duties Toward God 

16 Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every 
thing give thanks : for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus con- 
cerning you. 



d. The Duties Toward the Truth 

19 Quench not the Spirit. 20 Despise not prophesyings. 21 
Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from 
all appearance of evil. 

1 See Ramsay's "Pictures of the Apostolic Church." 



485 



Pa rt Four 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE APOSTLES CLOSING WORD 

THE BLESSING, SALUTATION AND BENEDICTION 
a. The Blessing 

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray 
God your spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless, unto 
the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is he that 
calleth you, who also will do it. 

* 

25 Brethren, pray for us. 



b. The Salutation 

26 Salute all the brethren with a holy kiss. 



c. The Charge 

27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all 
the holy brethren. 

d. The Benediction 

28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. 



487 



The Second Epistle to the 
Thessalonians 



Part <g)!u 
The Introduction 1 



THE APOSTLE AND THE THESSALONIANS 

THE SALUTATION AND THANKSGIVING 

a. The Salutation 

Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy, unto the church of the 
Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: 
2 Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the 
Lord Jesus Christ. 



b. The Thanksgiving 

3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as 
it is meet, because your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity 
of every one of you toward each other aboundeth; 4 so that we 
ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience 
and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure : 
5 which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, 
that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for 
which you also suffer: 6 seeing it is a righteous thing with God 
to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; 7 and to 
you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be 
revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 in flaming 
fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that 
obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 who shall be 
punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the 
Lord, and from the glory of his power; 10 when he shall come 
to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that 
believe [because our testimony among you was believed] in that 
day. 11 Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God 
would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good 
pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: 12 
that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, 
and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord 
Jesus Christ. 



1 Written from Corinth during the second missionary journey. 

491 Chapter 1:1-12 



Part $too 

The Instruction for the 
Thessalonians 



THE SECOND COMING OF JESUS CHRIST 
THE CONDITIONS OF CHRIST'S RETURN 
a. The Instruction for the Thessalonians 

Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord 
Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2 that 
you be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by 
spirit, nor by word, 1 nor by letter as from us, as that the day 
of Christ is at hand. 3 Let no man deceive you by any 
means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling 
away first, and that man of sin be revelaed, the son of perdition; 
4 who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called 
God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple 
of God, showing himself that he is God. 5 Remember you 
not, that, when I was yet with you, 2 I told you these things? 6 
And now you know what withholdeth that he might be revealed 
in his time. 7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: 
only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 
8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall 
consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the 
brightness of his coming: 9 even him, whose coming is after the 
working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 
10 and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that 
perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they 
might be saved. 11 And for this cause God shall send them 
strong delusion, that they should believe a He: 12 that they all 
might be damned who believe not the truth, but had pleasure in 
unrighteousness . 



b. The Value of Christian Doctrine 

13 But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, 
brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the begin- 
ning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit 

1 Saying of Jesus. 2 Acts 17 :lf. 

493 Chapter 2:1-13 



494 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

and belief of the truth: 14 whereunto he called you by our 
gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which 
you have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. 



c. The Apostle's Benediction 

16 Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our 
Father, who hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting con- 
solation and good hope through grace, 17 comfort your hearts, 
and establish you in every good word and work. 

Chapter 2:14-17 



fydrt ®bm 

The Exhortation for the 
Thessalonians 



THE SOCIAL LIFE OF THE CHURCH 

THE CIRCUMSPECTION CONCERNING EVIL-DOERS 

a. The Danger of Evil-Doers 

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord 
may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: 
2 and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked 
men: for all men have not faith. 13 But the Lord is faithful, 
who shall establish you, and keep you from evil. 4 And we have 
confidence in the Lord touching you, that you both do and will 
do the things that we command you. 5 And the Lord direct your 
hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for 
Christ. 



b. The Separation from Evil-Doers 

6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord 
Jesus Christ, that you withdraw yourselves from every brother 
that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he 
received of us. 7 For yourselves know how you ought to follow 
us : for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you ; 8 neither 
did we eat any man's bread for naught; but wrought with labour 
and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to 
any of you: 9 not because, we have not power, but to make 
ourselves an example unto you to follow us. 10 For even 
when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any 
would not work, neither should he eat. 11 For we hear that 
there are some that walk among you disorderly, working not at 
all, but are busybodies. 12 Now them that are such we command 
and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they 
work, and eat their own bread. 13 But ye, brethren, be not 
weary in well doing. 14 For if any man obey not our word by 
this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, 
that he may be ashamed. 15 Yet count him not as an enemy, 
but admonish him as a brother. 

495 Chapter 5:1-15 



Part IFour 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE PEACE OF GOD 

THE SALUTATION AND BENEDICTION 

a. The Blessing upon the Thessalonians 

Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all 
means. The Lord be with you all. 



b. The Autograph Salutation 

17 The salutation of Paul with my own hand, which is the 
token in every epistle : so I write. 



c. The Benediction 

18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 



* * * 

* * 

* 



497 



The First Epistle to Timothy 



Port <0n* 
The Introduction 1 



THE MISSION OF TIMOTHY AT EPHESUS 
THE SALUTATION AND THANKSGIVING 
a. The Salutation 

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God 
our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, who is our hope; 2 unto 
Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from 
God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord. 



b. The Exhortation 

3 As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went 
into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach 
no other doctrine, 4 neither give heed to fables and endless 
genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying 
which is in faith; so do. 5 Now the end of the commandment 
is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of 
faith unfeigned: 6 from which some having swerved have 
turned aside unto vain jangling; 7 desiring to be teachers of 
the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they 
affirm. 8 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it 
lawfully; 9 knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous 
man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for 
sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and 
murderers of mothers, for man-slayers, 10 for whoremongers, 
for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, 
for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that 
is contrary to sound doctrine; 11 according to the glorous 
gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust. 



c. The Thanksgiving 

12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, 
for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; 

1 Written en route during what is known as the fourth missionary journey 
of Paul, A. D. about 63. 

501 Chapter 1:1-12 



502 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

13^who was before a blasphemer, and a persecuter, and injurious : 
but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 
14fAnd the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant with 
faith land love which is in Christ Jesus. 15 This is a faithful 
saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that "Christ Jesus came 
into the world to save sinners;" of whom I am chief. 16 Howbeit 
for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ 
might show forth all longsurTering, for a pattern to them that 
should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. 



d. The Doxology 

17 Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only 
wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. 

Chapter 1:13-17 



Part ©too 

The Instruction and Exhortation 
for Timothy 



§1. THE MESSAGE OF PAUL FOR THE CHURCH 

I. THE APOSTLE'S CHARGE TO TIMOTHY 

The Charge to Timothy as the Pastor of the Church 

This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to 
the prophecies that went before on thee, that thou by them 
mightest war a good warfare; 19 holding faith, and a good 
conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have 
made shipwreck: 20 of whom is Hymenseus and Alexander; 
whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to 
blaspheme. 



H. THE DIRECTIONS FOR THE CONGREGATION 
a. The Prayers of the Church for all Men 

2:11 exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, 
intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 
for kings, and for all that are in authority; that they may lead a 
quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For 
this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 
who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowl- 
edge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator 
between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 who gave 
himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. 7 Where- 
unto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle [I speak the truth 
in Christ, and lie not], a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and 
verity. 8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting 
up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. 



b. The Position of Women in the Church 

9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in 
modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with 
braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 10 but [which 

503 Chapter 1:18-2:10 



504 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

becometh women professing godliness] with good works. 11 
Let women learn in silence with all subjection. 12 But I suffer 
not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but 
to be in silence. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 
And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, 
was in the transgression. 15 Notwithstanding, she shall be 
saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and 
holiness with sobriety. 



c. The Character of Bishops 

3 : 1 This is a true saying, "If a man desire the office of a bishop, 
he desireth a good work." 2 A bishop then must be blameless, 
the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, 
given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3 not given to wine, no 
striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, 
not covetous; 4 one that ruleth well his own house, having 
his children in subjection with all gravity 5 [For if a man 
know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of 
the church of God?]; 6 not a novice, lest being lifted up with 
pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover 
he must have a good report of them that are without ; lest he fall 
into reproach and the snare of the devil. 



d. The Character of Deacons 

8 Likewise must deacons be grave, not double tongued, not 
given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 9 holding the 
mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 And let these 
also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, 
being found blameless. 11 Even so must their wives be grave, 
not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. 12 Let the deacons 
be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own 
houses well. 13 For they that have used the office of deacon well 
purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the 
faith that is in Christ Jesus. 



e. The Plan to Visit Ephesus 

14 These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee 
shortly; 15 but if I tarry long, that thou may est know how 
thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is 
the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 

Chapter 2:11-3:15 



3:16 The First Epistle to Timothy 505 

§2. THE MESSAGE OF PAUL FOR TIMOTHY 

I. THE CHURCH AND THE TIMES 

a. The Seven-Fold Prologue 

16 And without controversy 

Great is the mystery of godliness : 
jod was manifest in the flesh, 
".istified in the Spirit, 
Seen of angels, 

Preached among the Gentiles, 
Believed on in the world, 
Received up into glory. 



b. The Apostasy of Believers 

4 : 1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter 
times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing 
spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2 speaking lies in hypocricy; 
having their conscience seared with a hot iron; 3 forbidding 
to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God 
hath created to be received with thanksgiving by them that 
believe and know the truth. 4 For every creature of God is 
good, and nothing is to be refused, if it be received with thanks- 
giving: 5 for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. 



H. THE DUTY OF TIMOTHY AS A MINISTER 
a. The Character and Conduct of Timothy 

6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, 
thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in 
the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast 
attained. 7 But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exer- 
cise thyself rather unto godliness. 8 For bodily exercise profiteth 
little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise 
of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. 9 This is 
a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation. 10 For therefore 
we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living 
God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe. 
11 These things command and teach. 12 Let no man despise thy 
youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in con- 
versation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 13 Till I 
come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 
14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, that was given thee by 
prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. 1 

x Acts 16:3. 

Chapter 3:16-4:14 



506 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; 
that thy profiting may appear to all. 16 Take heed unto thyself, 
and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou 
shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. 



b. The Ministry to the Church as a Family 

5:1 Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and 
the younger men as brothers; 2 the elder women as mothers; 
the younger as sisters, with all purity. 



c. The Order of Widows in the Church 

3 Honour widows that are widows indeed. 4 But if any 
widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to show 
piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and 
acceptable before God. 5 Now she that is a widow indeed, 
and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications 
and prayers night and day. 6 But she that liveth in pleasure 
is dead while she liveth. 7 And these things give in charge, 
that they may be blameless. 8 But if any provide not for his 
own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied 
the faith, and is worse than an infidel. 9 Let not a widow be 
taken into the number under threescore years old, having been 
the wife of one man, 10 well reported of for good works; if 
she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if 
she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, 
if she have diligently followed every good work. 



d. The Younger Widows in the Church 

11 But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun 
to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry; 12 having 
damnation, because they have cast off their first faith. 13 
And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to 
house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speak- 
ing things that they ought not. 14 I will therefore that the 
younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give 
no occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully. 15 For 
some are already turned aside after Satan. 16 If any man or 
woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and 
let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are 
widows indeed. 

Chapter 4:15-5:16 



5:17 The First Epistle to Timothy 507 

e. The Reward and Trial of Elders 

17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double 
honour, especially they that labour in the word and doctrine. 
18 For the scripture saith, "Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that 
treadeth out the corn;" x and, "The labourer is worthy of his 
reward." 2 19 Against an elder receive not an accusation, but 
before two or three witnesses. 20 Them that sin rebuke before 
all, that others also may fear. 21 I charge thee before God, 
and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe 
these things without preferring 3 one before another, doing nothing 
by partiality. 22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be 
partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure. 23 Drink no 
longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and 
thine often infirmities. 24 Some men's sins are open before- 
hand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after. 
25 Likewise also the good works of some are manifest before- 
hand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid. 



f. The Duty of Slaves to Masters 

6 : 1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their 
own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and 
his doctrine be not blasphemed. 2 And they that have believing 
masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; 
but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, 
partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort. 



in. THE DUTY OF TIMOTHY TOWARD RICHES 
a. The Way of Godliness not Gain 

3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome 
words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doc- 
trine that is according to godliness; 4 he is proud, knowing 
nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof 
cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 5 perverse dis- 
putings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, 
supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. 
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we 
brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry 
nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be there- 
with content. 9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation 
and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown 
men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is 

1 Deut. 25:4. 2 Deut. 24:14. 3 Or, without prejudice. 

Chapter 5:17-6:10 



508 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have 
erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many 
sorrows. 



b. The Personal Duty of Timothy 

11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and folio 
after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness 
12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, where- 
unto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession 
before many witnesses. 13 I give thee charge in the sight of 
God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who 
before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession; 14 that 
thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until 
the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: 15 who in his times he 
shall show who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of 
kings, and Lord of lords; 16 who only hath immortality, dwell- 
ing in the light that no man can approach unto ; whom no man hath 
seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. 
Amen. 



c. The Duty of Timothy Toward the Rich 

17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not 
highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, 
who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; 18 that they do good, 
that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to 
communicate; 19 laying up in store for themselves a good 
foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on 
eternal life. 

Chapter 6:11-19 



Part $Iim 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE DUTY OF THE HOUR 

THE CLOSING EXHORTATION AND BENEDICTION 

a. The Exhortation to Fidelity 

20 Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, 
avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science 
falsely so called : 21 which some professing have erred concerning 
the faith. 



b. The Benediction 

Grace be, with thee. Amen. 



* 









509 



The Second Epistle to Timothy 



Part <0n? 
The Introduction 



THE DESIRE OF PAUL FOR TIMOTHY 

THE SALUTATION AND THANKSGIVING 
a. The Salutation 

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according 
to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, 2 to Timothy, 
my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy and peace, from God the 
Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 



b. The Thanksgiving 

3 I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure 
conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee 
in my prayers night and day; 4 greatly desiring to see thee, 
being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; 5 
when I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, 
which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; 
and I am persuaded that in thee also. 

1 Written from Rome during Paul's second Roman imprisonment, just 
before his death, A. D. about 67. 

Chapter 1:1-5 



513 



Part ®too 
The Exhortation for Timothy 



THE MINISTRY OF TIMOTHY AT EPHESUS 

I. THE DUTY OF TIMOTHY IN SOCIETY 

a. The Duty of Timothy as a Minister 

Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the 
gift of God, that is in thee by the putting on my hands. 7 For 
God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of 
love, and of a sound mind. 8 Be not thou therefore ashamed 
of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner; but be thou 
partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power 
of God; 9 who hath saved us, and called us with a holy calling, 
not according to our works, but according to his own purpose 
and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world 
began, 10 but is now made manifest by the appearing of our 
Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought 
life and immortality to light through the gospel: 11 whereunto 
I am appointed a minister, and an apostle, and a teacher of the 
Gentiles. 12 For which cause I also suffer these things; never- 
theless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, 
and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have com- 
mitted unto him against that day. 13 Hold fast the form of 
sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love 
which is in Christ Jesus. 14 That good thing that was com- 
mitted unto thee keep by the Holy Spirit that dwelleth in us. 



b. The Examples of Others 

15 This thou knowest, that all they that are in Asia have 
turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes. 
16 The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he 
oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: 17 but, 
when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and 
found me. 18 The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy 
of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered 
unto me at Ephesus thou knowest very well. 

515 Chapter 1:6-18 



516 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

c. The Personal Position of Timothy 

2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is 
in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things that thou hast heard of me 
among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, 
who shall be able to teach others also. 3 Thou therefore endure 
hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No man that 
warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he 
may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. 5 And 
if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except 
he strive lawfully. 6 The husbandman that laboureth must be 
first partaker of the fruits. 7 Consider what I say; and the 
Lord give thee understanding in all things. 8 Remember that 
Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead accord- 
ing to my gospel: 9 wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, 
even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound. 10 There- 
fore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also 
obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. 
1 1 It is a faithful saying : * * * 

"For if we be dead with him, we shall also live 
with him: 

12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: 
If we deny him, he also will deny us : 

13 If we believe not, yet be abideth faithful: 
He cannot deny himself." 



II. THE DUTY OF TIMOTHY IN THE CHURCH 
a. The Importance of Careful Instruction 

14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them 
before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, 
but to the subverting of the hearers. 15 Study to show thyself 
approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, 
rightly dividing the word of truth. 16 But shun profane and 
vain babblings: for they will increase to more ungodliness. 17 
And their word will eat as doth a canker : of whom is Hymenseus 
and Philetus; 18 who concerning the truth have erred, saying 
that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of 
some. 19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, 
having this seal, "The Lord knoweth them that are his;" 1 and, 
"Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from 
iniquity." 2 20 But in a great house there are not only vessels 
of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some 
to honour, and some to dishonour. 21 If a man therefore purge 



1 Num. 26:5. 2 Isa. 26:13. 

Chapter 2:1-21 



2:22 The Second Epistle to Timothy 517 

himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, 
and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good 
work. 22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, 
faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a 
pure heart. 23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, 
knowing that they do gender strifes. 24 And the servant of 
the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, 
patient, 25 in meekness instructing those that oppose them- 
selves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the 
acknowledging of the truth; 26 and that they may recover 
themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive 
by him at his will. 



b. The Great Danger of the Times 

3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall 
come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, 
boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, 
unholy, 3 without natural affection, trucebrakers, false accusers, 
incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 traitors, 
heady, highminded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God; 
5 having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: 
from such turn away. 6 For of this sort are they that creep 
into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led 
away with divers lusts, 7 ever learning, and never able to come 
to a knowledge of the truth. 8 Now as Jannes and Jambres 
withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt 
minds, reprobate concerning the faith. 9 But they shall proceed 
no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs 
also was. 10 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner 
of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, 11 per- 
secutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, 1 at 
Iconium, x at Lystra; 1 what persecutions I endured: but out of 
them all the Lord delivered me. 12 Yea, and all that will live 
godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 13 But evil 
men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and be 
deceived. 14 But continue thou in the things thou hast learned 
and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned 
them: 15 and that from a child thou hast known the holy 
scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation 
through faith that is in Christ Jesus. 

* * * 

16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, 
And is profitable for doctrine, 



1 Cities in Galatia visited by Paul on the first missionary journey. 

Chapter 2:22-3:16 



518 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

For reproof, 
For correction, 

For instruction in righteousness : 
17 That the man of God may be perfect, 

Thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 



c. The Duty of the Hour at Ephesus 

4:1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus 
Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing 
and his kingdom; 2 preach the word; be instant in season, 
out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering 
and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not 
endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap 
to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 and they shall 
turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto 
fables. 5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do 
the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. 6 For 
I am ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at 
hand. 7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, 
I have kept the faith: 8 henceforth there is laid up for me a 
crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, 
shall give me at that day : and not to me only, but unto all them 
also that love his appearing. 

Chapter 3:17-4:8 



Part ®&m 

The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE LAST WORDS OF PAUL 

THE PERSONAL MESSAGES OF PAUL FOR TIMOTHY 

a. The Call of Timothy from Ephesus to Rome 

Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me: 10 for Demas 
hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed 
unto Thessalonica ; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. 
11 Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: 
for he is profitable to me for the ministry. 12 And Tychicus 
have I sent to Ephesus. 

13 The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou 
comest bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parch- 
ments. 

* 

14 Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord 
reward him according to his works: 15 of whom be thou aware 
also; for he hath greatly withstood our words. 

* 

16 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men 
forsook me : I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. 
17 Notwithstanding, the Lord stood with me, and strengthened 
me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that 
all the Gentiles might hear : and I was delivered out of the mouth 
of the lion. 18 And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil 
work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom 
be glory for ever and ever. Amen. 



b. The Apostle's Salutations 

19 Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. 

* 

20 Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at 
Miletus sick. 

Chapter 4:9-20 
519 



520 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

21 Do thy diligence to come before winter. 

* 

Eubulus greeteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and 
Claudia, and all the brethren. 



c. The Benediction 

22 The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with 

you. Amen. 

* * * 

* * 

* 



The Epistle to Titus 






JCI ft r t <0nf 
The Introduction 



THE MANIFESTATION OF THE WORD 

THE SALUTATION OF THE APOSTLE 

The Child of Paul in the Gospel 

Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according 
to the faith of God's elect, and the knowledge of the truth that 
is after godliness; 2 in hope of eternal life, which God, who 
cannot lie, promised before the world began; 3 but hath in 
due times manifested his word through preaching, which is com- 
mitted unto me according to the commandment of God our 
Saviour; 4 to Titus, my own son after the common faith: Grace, 
mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus 
Christ our Saviour. 



1 Written by Paul en route about A. D. 64. 

Chapter 1:1-4 



523 



Part $too 
The Instruction for Titus 



THE MINISTRY IN CRETE 

I. THE APPOINTMENT OF MINISTERS IN CRETE 
a. The Character and Appointment of Elders 

For this cause I left thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set 
in order the things that are wanting, x and ordain elders in e very- 
city, as I had appointed thee: 6 if any be blameless, the hus- 
band of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot 
or unruly. 7 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward 
of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no 
striker, not given to filthy lucre; 8 but a lover of hospitality, 
a lover of good men, just, holy, temperate; 9 holding fast the 
faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by 
sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsay ers. 



b. The Duty of Titus toward Disturbers 

10 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, 
specially they of the circumcision: 11 whose mouths must be 
stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things that they 
ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. 12 One of them selves, even 
a prophet of their own, said, "The Cretians are always liars, 
evil beasts, slow bellies." 13 This witness is true. Wherefore 
rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; 14 
not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, 
that turn from the truth. 15 Unto the pure all things are pure: 
but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; 
but even their mind and conscience is defiled. 16 They profess 
that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abomi- 
nable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. 



II. THE CHARACTER OF BELIEVERS 
a. The Conduct of the Christian in Society 

2:1 But speak thou the things that become sound doctrine: 
2 that the aged may be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, 

1 Or, left undone. 

525 Chapter 1:5-2:2 



526 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

in charity, in patience. 3 The aged women likewise, that they 
be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not 
given to much wine, teachers of good things; 4 that they may 
teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to 
love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, 
good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be 
not blasphemed. 6 Young men likewise exhort to be sober 
minded. 7 In all things showing thyself a pattern of good 
works: in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, 8 
sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the 
contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of 
you. 9 Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, 
and to please them well in all things; not answering again; 10 
not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may 
adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. 11 For 
the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all 
men, 12 teaching us, that, denying ungodliness and worldly 
lusts, we should five soberly, righteously, and godly, in this 
present world; 13 looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious 
appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 
who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, 
and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. 
15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. 
Let no man despise thee. 

b. The Conduct of the Christian in the State 

3 : 1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, 
to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, 2 to 
speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, showing all 
meekness unto all men. 3 For we ourselves also were some- 
times foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and 
pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one 
another. 4 But after that the kindness and love of God our 
Saviour toward man appeared, 5 not by works of righteousness 
which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, 
by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Spirit, 
6 which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our 
Saviour; 7 that being justified by his grace, we should be made 
heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8 This is a faithful 
saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that 
they who have believed in God might be careful to maintain 
good works. These things are good and profitable unto men. 

9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, 
and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. 

10 A man that is a heretick after the first and second admonition 
reject ; 1 1 knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, 
being condemned of himself. 

Chapter 2:3-3:11 



Part lirn 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE CALL OF TITUS TO NICOPOLIS 

THE INSTRUCTIONS, SALUTATIONS AND BENEDICTION 

a. The Missionary Plans and Instructions 

When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent 
to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to 
winter. 13 Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey 
diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them. 



b. The Self-Support of the Cretans 

14f And let ours also learn to maintain good works l for neces- 
sary uses, that they be not unfruitful. 



c. The Salutations 

15 All that are with me salute thee. 

* 

Salute them that love us in faith. 



d. The Benediction 

Grace be with you all. Amen. 



1 Or, profess honest trades. 



* * * 

* * 

* 



527 



The Epistle to Philemon 



Part 4Dn? 
The Introduction 



THE FAITH AND LOVE OF PHILEMON 

THE SALUTATION AND THANKSGIVING 

a. The Salutation 

Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothyjcwrjbrother, 
unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, ? 2 and 
to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to 
the church in thy house: 3 Grace to you, and peace, from God 
our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 



b. The Thanksgiving 

4 I thank my God, making mention of thee always in-fmy 
prayers, 5 hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast .to- 
ward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; 6 that the communi- 
cation of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging 
of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. 7 For we 
have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the hearts 
of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother. 

1 Written from Rome during the first Roman imprisonment. 

Chapter 1:1-7 



531 



Part $too 
The Plea for Onesimus 



THE APPEAL TO PHILEMON 

THE APOSTLE'S GUARANTEE FOR ONESIMUS 

The Request for the Freedom of Onesimus 

Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin 
thee that which is convenient, 9 yet for love's sake I rather 
beseech thee, being such a one as Paul the aged, and now also 
a prisoner of Jesus Christ. 10 I beseech thee for my son Onesi- 
mus, whom I have begotten in my bonds; 11 who in time past 
was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: 
12 whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that 
is, my own heart: 13 whom I would have retained with me, 
that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds 
of the gospel: 14 but without thy mind would I do nothing; 
that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. 
15 For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou 
shouldest receive him for ever; 16 not now as a servant, but 
above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how 
much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? 17 If 
thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. 18 
If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee aught, put that on my 
account; 19 I Paul have written it with my own hand, I will 
repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even 
thine own self besides. 20 Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee 
in the Lord: refresh my spirit in the Lord. 

Chapter 1:8-20 



533 



Part (Ebm 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE CONFIDENCE OF PAUL IN PHILEMON 

THE SALUTATION AND BENEDICTION 

a. The Proposed Visit to Philemon 

Having confidence in thy obedience, I wrote unto thee, knowing 
that thou wilt also do more than I say. 22 But withal prepare 
me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall 
be given unto you. 



b. The Salutations 

23 There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ 
Jesus; 24 Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas,§|Luke, my fellow- 
labourers. 



e. The Benediction 

25 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. 
Amen. 

* * * 
* * 



535 



The Epistle to the Hebrews 



Part <0n? 
The Introduction 1 



THE REVELATION OF THE SON OF GOD 

I. THE GREATNESS OF THE SON 

The Seven-Fold Saying 
* 

God who at sundry times and in divers manners 
spoke in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 
2 hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son ; 

* 

Whom he hath appointed heir of all things; 
* 

By whom also he made the worlds ; 
* 

3 Who, being the brightness of his glory, 
* 

And the express image of his person, 
* 

And upholding all things by the word of 
his power, 

* 

When he had by himself purged our sins, sat 
down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; 4 
being so much better than the angels, as he hath by 
inheritance obtained a more excellent name than 
they. 



H. THE PRE-EMINENCE OF THE SON 
a. The Seven-Fold Word of Scripture 

5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time : 8 



1 Written, very probably, during the Judaeo-Roman war — A. D. 66-70, 
and addressed to Jewish believers. 
*Ps. 2:7. 

539 Chapter 1:1-5 



540 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

"Thou art my Son, 
This day have I begotten thee?" 
* * 

And again : * 

* * * 

"I will be to him a Father, 
And he shall be to me a Son?" 

* * * 

6 And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the 
world, he saith: 2 

* * * 

"And let all the angels of God worship him." 
** ** 

7 And of the angels he saith : 8 

* * * 

"Who maketh his angels spirits, 
And his ministers a flame of fire." 

** * ** 

8 But unto the Son he saith: 4 

* * * 

"Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: 
A sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy 
kingdom. 
9 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; 
Therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee 
With the oil of gladness above thy fellows." 

10 And, 8 

* * * 

"Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foun- 
dation of the earth; 
And the heavens are the work of thy hands; 

1 1 They shall perish ; but thou remainest ; 

And they all shall wax old, as doth a garment; 

12 And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, 
And they shall be changed : 

But thou art the same, 

And thy years shall not fail." 

13 But to which of the angels said he at any time : 6 



1 II Sam. 7:14. 2 Ps. 97:7. 3 Ps. 104:4. 4 Ps. 45:6f. 

•Ps. 102:25f. 6 Ps. 110:1. 

Chapter 1:6-13 



1:14 The Epistle to the Hebrews 541 

* * * 

"Sit thou on my right hand, 
Until I make thy enemies thy footstool?" 

14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister 
for them that shall be heirs of salvation? 



b. The Exhortation to Obedience 

2 : 1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the 
things that we have heard, lest at any time we should let them 
slip. 2 For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and 
every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense 
of reward, 3 how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salva- 
tion; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was 
confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 4 God also bearing 
them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers 
miracles, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to his own 
will? 



c. The Incarnation of the Son as High Priest 

5 For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world 

to come, whereof we speak. 6 But one in a certain place testified, 

saying : 

* * * 

"What is man, that thou art mindful of him? 
Or the Son of man, that thou visitest him? 

7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels ; 
Thou crownedst him with glory and honour, 
And didst set him over the works of thy hands : 

8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his 

feet." l 

* 

For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing 
that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things 
put under him. 9 But we see Jesus, who was "made a little 
lower than the angels" for the suffering of death, "crowned with 
glory and honour;" that he by the grace of God should taste 
death for every man. 10 For it became him, for whom are all 
things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto 
glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through 
sufferings. 11 For both he that sanctifieth, and they that are 

IPs. 8:4. 

Chapter 1:14-2:11 



542 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to 

call them brethren, saying: 

* * * 

12 "I will declare thy name unto my brethren, 

In the midst of the church will I sing praise unto 
thee." 1 

13 And again, "I will put my trust in him." 2 And again, "Be- 
hold, I and the children whom God hath given me." 3 14 For- 
asmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, 
he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through 
death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, 
the devil; 15 and deliver them who through fear of death 
were all their lifetime subject to bondage. 16 For verily he 
took not on himself the nature of angels; but he took on himself 
the seed of Abraham. 17 Wherefore in all things it behoved 
him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful 
and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make 
reconciliation for the sins of the people. 18 For in that he him- 
self hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that 
are tempted. 

IPs. 22:22. 8 Ps. 18:2. » Isa. 8:18. 

Chapter 2:12-18 



Part $too 
The Instruction for the Hebrews 



THE NEW PRIESTHOOD AND SANCTUARY 

I. THE HIGH PRIESTHOOD OF JESUS 

a. The Faithfulness of Jesus to God 

Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, 
consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ 
Jesus; 2 who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also 
Moses was faithful in all his house. 3 For this man was counted 
worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath 
builded the house hath more honour than the house. 4 For 
every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things 
is God. 5 And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a 
servant, for a testimony of those things that were to be spoken 
after; 6 but Christ as son over his own house; whose house 
are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the 
hope firm unto the end. 

b. The Warning Against Unbelief 

7 Wherefore, as the Holy Spirit saith : l 

8 "Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, 

9 When your fathers tempted me, proved me, 
And saw my works forty years. 

10 Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, 
And said, They do always err in their heart ; 
And they have not known my ways. 

11 So I sware in my wrath, 

They shall not enter into my rest;" 
* 

12 take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of 
unbelief, in departing from the living God. 13 But exhort one 
another daily, while it is called To-day ; lest any of you be hardened 
through the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we are made partakers 

iPs. 95:7-11. 

543 Chapter 3:1-14 



544 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto 
the end; 15 while it is said: x 

* * * 

"To-day if you will hear his voice, 
Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation." 
* 

16 For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all 
that came out of Egypt by Moses. 17 But with whom was he 
grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned whose 
carcases fell in the wilderness? 18 And to whom sware he that 
they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? 
19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. 



c. The Admonition to Diligence 

4:1 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering 
into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. 2 For 
unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the 
word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in 
them that heard it. 3 For we who have believed do enter into 
rest, as he said: 2 

"As I have sworn in my wrath, 
If they shall enter into my rest:" 
* 

although the works were finished from the foundation of the 
world. 4 For he spoke in a certain place of the seventh day on this 
wise: 3 "And God did rest the seventh day from all his works." 

5 And in this place again, "If they shall enter into my rest." 4 

6 Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and 
they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of 
unbelief: 7 again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, 
"Today," after so long a time; as it is said: 4 

* * * 

"Today if you will hear his voice, 
Harden not your hearts." 
* 

8 For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterwards 
have spoken of another day. 9 There remaineth therefore a rest 
to the people of God. 10 For he that is entered into his rest, he 
also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. 11 Let 
us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after 



Ps. 95:7. 2 Ps. 95:11. 3 Gen. 2:2. 4 Ps. 95:7. 

Chapter 3:15-4:1 1 



4:12 The Epistle to the Hebrews 545 

the same example of unbelief. 1 12 For the word of God is quick 
and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even 
to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and 
marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 
13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: 
but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with 
whom we have to do. 



d. The Admonition to Boldness 

14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed 
into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our 
profession. 15 For we have not a high priest who cannot be 
touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points 
tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come 
boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and? 
find grace to help in time of need. 



n. THE NATURE OF JESUS' HIGH PRIESTHOOD 
a. The Priestly Order of Melchizedek 

5:1 For every high priest taken from among men is ordained 
for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts 
and sacrifices for sins : 2 who can have compassion on the ignorant 
and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is 
compassed with infirmity. 3 And by reason hereof he ought as 
for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins. 4 And no 
man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, 
as was Aaron. 5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made a . 
high priest ; but he that said unto him : 

* * * 

"Thou art my beloved Son, 
To day have I begotten thee." 2 
* 

6 As he saith also in another place: 

* * * 

"Thou art a priest for ever, 
After the order of Melchizedek." 1 

* 

7 Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers^ 
and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was 
able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; 

*Or, disobedience. 2 Ps. 2:7. 3 Ps. 110:4. 

Chapter 4:12-5:7 



546 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

8 though he were yet a son, yet learned he obedience by the things 
which he suffered; 9 and being made perfect, he became the 
author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; 10 
called of God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek. 



b. The Admonition to Advancement 

1 1 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, 
seeing you are dull of hearing. 12 For when for the time you 
ought to be teachers, you have need that one teach you again 
what are the first principles of the oracles of God, and are become 
such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For 
every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness ; 
for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are 
of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses 
exercised to discern both good and evil. 



c. The Admonition Against Apostasy 

6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, 

* * * 

Let us go on unto perfection ; 

* 

Not laying again the foundation of repent- 
ance from dead works 

* 

And of faith toward God, 

2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, 

And of laying on of hands, 

* 
And of the resurrection of the dead, 

* 

3 And of eternal judgment. 

* 

4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, 1 
and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers 
of the Holy Spirit, 5 and have tasted the good word of God, 
and the powers of the world to come, 6 if they shall fall away, 

1 This is possibly a repeated seven-fold admonition. 

Chapter 5:8-6:6 



6:7 The Epistle to the Hebrews 547 

to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to 
themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. 
7 For the earth that drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon 
it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, 
receiveth blessing from God: 8 but that which beareth thorns 
and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to 
be burned. 



d. The Admonition to Hopefulness 

9 But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and 
things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. 10 For 
God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, 
which you showed toward his name, in that you have ministered 
to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that every one 
of you do show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope 
unto the end: 12 that you be not slothful but followers of them 
who through faith and patience inherit the promises. 



e. The Great Assurance of God 



13 For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could 
swear by no greater, he sware by himself, 14 saying, "Surely 
blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee." 1 

15 And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise, 

16 For men verily swear by the greater : and an oath for confirma- 
tion is to them an end of all strife. 17 Wherein God, willing 

I more abundantly to show unto the heirs of promise the immuta- 

bility of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: 18 that by two 
immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we 
might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay 
hold upon the hope set before us : 19 which hope we have as an 
anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into 
that within the veil; 20 whither the forerunner is for us entered, 
even Jesus, made a high priest for ever after the order of Melchiz- 
edek. 



HI. THE HIGH PRIESTHOOD OF MELCHIZEDEK 
a. The Seven-Fold Character 



7:1 For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the most 
high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the 
kings, and blessed him; 2 to whom also Abraham gave a tenth 
part of all ; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and 

1 Gen. 22:16. 

Chapter-6:7-7:2 



548 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; 3 without 
father, without mother, without descent, 1 having neither beginning 
of days, nor end of life ; but made like unto the Son of God, abideth 
a priest continually. 



b. The Greatness of Melchizedek 

4 Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the 
patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils. 5 And verily 
they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the 
priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people 
according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come 
out of the loins of Abraham: 6 but he whose descent 2 is not 
counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him 
that had the promises. 7 And without all contradiction the less 
is blessed of the better. 8 And here men that die receive tithes; 
but there he receiveth them of whom it is witnessed that he liveth. 
9 And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, paid tithes 
in Abraham. 10 For he was yet in the loins of his father, when 
Melchizedek met him. 



c. The Inferiority of Aaron 

11 If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood [for 

under it the people received the law], what further need was there 

that another priest should rise after the order of Melchizedek, and 

not be called after the order of Aaron? 12 For the priesthood 

being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. 

13 For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another 

tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar. 14 For it is 

evident that our Lord sprang out of Judah; of which tribe Moses 

spoke nothing concerning the priesthood. 15 And it is yet far 

more evident : for after the similitude of Melchizedek there ariseth 

another priest, 16 who is made, not after the law of a carnal 

commandment, but after the power of an endless life. 17 For he 

testifieth : 1 

* * * 

"Thou art a priest for ever 
After the order of Melchizedek." 

* 

18 For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going 
before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof. 19 For the 
law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; 
by which we draw nigh unto God. 20 And inasmuch as not 

1 Or, pedigree. * Ps. 110:4. 

Chapter 7:3-20 



7:21 The Epistle to the Hebrews 549 

without an oath he was made priest 21 [For those priests were 
made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said 

unto him : ■ 

* * * 

"The Lord sware and will not repent, 
Thou art a priest for ever 
After the order of Melchizedek"] : 

* 

22 by so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. 

23 And they truly were made priests, because they were not 
suffered to continue by reason of death : 24 but this man, because 
he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. 25 Where- 
fore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto 
God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. 



d. The One Sufficient High Priest 

26 For such a high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, 
undented, separate from sinners, and made higher than the 
heavens; 27 who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to 
offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: 
for this he did once, when he offered up himself. 28 For the law 
maketh men high priests, that have infirmity; but the word of the 
oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son who is consecrated 
for evermore. 



IV. THE BETTER COVENANT AND SANCTUARY 
a. The New Covenant with the People 

8:1 Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: 
We have such a high priest, who is set on the right hand of the 
throne of the Majesty in the heavens; 2 a minister of the sanc- 
tuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not 
man. 3 For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacri- 
fices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat 
also to offer. 4 For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, 
seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: 
5 who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as 
Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the 
tabernacle: for, "See," saith he, "that thou make all things accord- 
ing to the pattern showed thee in the mount." 2 6 But now hath 
he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is 
the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon 

iPs. 110:4. 2 Ex. 25:40. 

Chapter 7:21-8:6 



550 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

better promises. 7 For if that first covenant had been faultless, 
then should no place have been sought for the second, 8 for 
finding fault with them, he saith: 1 

* * * 

"Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, 
When I will make a new covenant with the 

house of Israel 
And with the house of Judah : 
9 Not according to the covenant that I made with 

their fathers 
In the day when I took them by the hand 
To lead them out of the land of Egypt ; 
Because they continued not in my covenant, 
And I regarded them not, saith the Lord. 

10 For this is the covenant that I will make with 

the house of Israel 
After those days, saith the Lord: 3 
I will put my laws into their mind, 
And write them in their hearts : 
And I will be to them a God, 
And they shall be to me a people : 

1 1 And they shall not teach every man his neighbor, 
And every man his brother, saying, 'Know the 

Lord:' 
For all shall know me, 
From the least to the greatest. 

12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, 
And their sins and their iniquities will I remem- 
ber no more." 

* 

13 In that he saith, "A new covenant," he hath made the first old. 
Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away. 



b. The Passing of the Old Sanctuary 

9:1 Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances 2 of divine 
service, and a worldly sanctuary. 2 For there was a tabernacle 
made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the 
shewbread; which is called the sanctuary. 3 And after the 
second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; 4 
which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid 
round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had 
manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the cove- 
nant ; 5 and over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercy- 

1 Jer. 31:31-34. 2 The seven-fold covenant. 3 Or, ceremonies. 

Chapter 8:7-9:5 



9:6 The Epistle to the Hebrews 551 

seat; of which we cannot now speak particularly. 6 Now when 
these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the 
first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. 7 But into 
the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without 
blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people : 
8 the Holy Spirit this signifying, that the way into the holiest of 
all was not yet made manifest, while the first tabernacle was yet 
standing: 9 which was sl figure for the time then present, in 
which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make 
him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the* conscience ; 
10 which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and 
carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation. 



c. The Coming of the New Sanctuary 

11 But Christ being come a high priest of good things to come, 
by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, 
that is to say, not of this building; 12 neither by the blood of 
goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the 
holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. 13 For 
if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling 
the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh : 14 how much 
more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit 
offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from 
dead works to serve the living God? 15 And for this cause he is 
the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for 
the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first 
testament, they that are called might receive the promise of 
eternal inheritance. 16 For where a testament is y there must 
also of necessity be the death of the testator. 17 For a testament 
is of force after men are dead : otherwise it is of no strength at all 
while the testator liveth. 18 Whereupon neither the first testa- 
ment was dedicated without blood. 19 For when Moses had 
spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he 
took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wood, 
and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, 
20 saying, "This is the blood of the testament which God hath 
enjoined unto you." 21 Moreover he sprinkled with blood both 
the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. 22 And almost 
all things are by the law purged with blood; and without the 
shedding of blood there is no remission. 



d. The Sacrifice of Christ for Sin 



23 It was therefore necessary that the pattern of things in the 
heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things 

Chapter 9:6-23 



552 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

themselves with better sacrifices than these. 24 For Christ is not 
entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the 
figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the 
presence of God for us: 25 nor yet that he should offer himself 
often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year 
with the blood of others ; 26 for then must he often have suffered 
since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the 
world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. 
27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the 
judgment : 28 so Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many ; 
and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time 
without sin unto salvation. 



e. The Insufficiency of the Law 

10 :1 For the law having a shadow of good things to come and 
not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices 
which they offered year by year continually make the comers 
thereunto perfect. 2 For then would they not have ceased to be 
offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have no 
more conscience of sins. 3 But in those sacrifices there is a 
remembrance again made of sins every year. 4 For it is not 
possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. 
5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith : l 

* * * 

"Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, 
But a body hast thou prepared me : 

6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast 

had no pleasure. 

7 Then said I, Lo, I come 

[In the volume of the book it is written of me] 
To do thy will, O God." 
* 

8 Above when he said, "Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings 
and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure 
therein;" which are offered by the law; 9 then said he, "Lo, I 
come to do thy will, O God." He taketh away the first, that he 
may establish the second. 10 By which will we are sanctified 
through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. 1 1 
And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering often- 
times the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins : 12 but 
this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat 
down at the right hand of God; 13 from henceforth expecting 
till his enemies be made his footstool. 14 For by one offering he 

1 Ps. 40:6. 

Chapter 9:24-10:14 



10:15 The Epistle to the Hebrews 553 

hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. 15 Whereof 

the Holy Spirit also is a witness to us : for after that he had said 

before : l 

* * * 

16 "This is the covenant that I will make with them 

After those days, saith the Lord: 
I will put my laws into their hearts, 
And in their minds will I write them; 

17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no 

more." 

* 

18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for 
sin. 



ijer. 31:33. 

Chapter 10:15-18 



Part ftbrn 
The Exhortation for the Hebrews 



THE GREAT DUTY OF THE HOUR 

I. THE PERILS OF APOSTASY FROM THE FAITH 

a. The Seven-Fold Exhortation 

Having therefore, brethren, boldness 1 to enter into the holiest 
by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way, which he 
hath consecrated 2 for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; 
21 and having a high priest over the house of God; 

22 Let us draw near with a true heart in the 
full assurance of faith, 

Having our hearts sprinkled from an evil 
conscience, 

And our bodies washed with pure water. 

23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith 
without wavering (for he is faithful that promised) ; 

24 And let us consider one another to provoke 
unto love and good works 

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves 
together, as the manner of some is; 

But exhorting one another, and so much the more, 
as you see the day approaching. 



b. The Certainty of Divine Judgment 

26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowl- 
edge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, 27 
but a certain looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which 
shall devour the adversaries. 28 He that despised Moses' law 
died without mercy under two or three witnesses: 29 of how 
much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, 
who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted 
the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy 

1 Liberty. 2 Or, new made. 

555 Chapter 10:19-29 



556 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

thing, and hath done despite unto the spirit of grace? 30 For 
we know him that hath said, 1 "Vengeance belongeth unto me, I 
will recompense, saith the Lord." And again, 2 "The Lord shall 
judge his people." 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands 
of the living God. 



c. The Importance of Boldness 

32 But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after 
you were illuminated, you endured a great fight of afflictions; 
33 partly, while you were made a gazingstock both by reproaches 
and afflictions; and partly, while you became companions of 
them that were so used. 34 For you had compassion on me in my 
bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in 
yourselves that you have in heaven a better and an enduring 
substance. 35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, that 
hath great recompense of reward. 36 For you have need [of 
patience, that, after you have done the will of God, you might 
receive the promise. 3 

* * * 

37 "For yet a little while, 

And he that shall come will come, and will 
not tarry. 

38 Now the just shall live by faith; 

But if any man draw back, my soul shall have no 
pleasure in him." 
* 

39 But we are not of them that draw back unto perdition; but 
of them that believe to the saving of the soul. 



II. THE MANIFOLD TRIUMPHS OF FAITH 
a. The Seven-Fold Faith of the Patriarchs 

11:1 Now faith is the substance 4 of things hoped for, the evidence 
of things not seen. 

* * * 

2 For by it the elders obtained a good report. 

* * 

3 Through faith we understand that the worlds 
were framed by the word of God, so that things that 
are seen were not made of things that do appear. 



1 Deut. 32:35. 2 Ps. 50:4. 3 Hab. 2:3f. 

4 Or, ground or confidence. 

Chapter 10:30-11:3 



11:4 The Epistle to the Hebrews 557 



4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent 
sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that 
he was righteous, God testifying to his gifts : and by 
it he being dead yet speaketh. 

** ** 

5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should 
not see death; and was not found, because God had 
translated him: for before his translation he had 
this testimony, that he pleased God. 6 But without 
faith it is impossible to please him: for he that 
cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a 
rewarder of them that diligently seek him. 

7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things 

not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark for 

the saving of his house ; by which he condemned the 

world, and became an heir of the righteousness which 

is by faith 

*# ** ** 

8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go 
out into a place which he should after receive for an 
inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing 
whither he went. 9 By faith he sojourned in the land 
of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in taber- 
nacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of 
the same promise; 11 for he looked for a city that 
hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. 

*** * *** 

11 Through faith also Sarah herself received 
strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a 
child when she was past age, because she judged htm 
faithful who had promised. 12 Therefore sprang 
there even from one, and him as good as dead, as 
many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as 
the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. 

* 

13 These all died in faith, not having received 
the promises, but having seen them afar off, and 
were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and 
confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on 
the earth. 14 For they that say such things declare 
plainly that they seek a country. 15 And truly if 
they had been mindful of that country from whence 
they came out, they might have had opportunity to 

Chapter 11:4-15 



558 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part HI 

have returned. 16 But now they desire a better 
country, that is, a heavenly: wherefore God is not 
ashamed to be called their God : for he hath prepared 
for them a citv. 



b. The Seven-Fold Faith of Israel 

17 By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered 

up Isaac: and he that had received the promises 

offered up his only begotten son, 18 of whom it was 

said, "That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:" 1 

19 accounting that God was able to raise him up, 

even from the dead; from whence also he received 

him in a figure. 

* * 

20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau con- 
cerning things to come. 

* * * 

21 By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed both 
the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon 
the top of his staff. 

22 By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention 
of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave 
commandment concerning his bones. 

23 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid 
three months by his parents because they saw that 
he was a proper child ; and they were not afraid of the 
king's commandment. 



24 By faith Moses, 2 when he was come to years, 
refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; 
25 choosing rather to suffer affliction with the 
people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for 
a season; 26 esteeming the reproach of Christ 
greater riches than the treasures in Egypt ; for he 
had respect unto the recompense of reward. 27 By 
faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the 
king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. 
28 Through faith he kept the passover, and the 
sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the 
firstborn should touch them. 29 By faith they 



Gen. 21:12. 2 The seven-fold faith of Moses. 

Chapter 11:16-29 



11:30 The Epistle to the Hebrews 559 

passed through the Red Sea, as by dry land: which 
the Egyptians essaying to do were drowned. 
*** * *#* 

30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after 
they were compassed about seven days. 31 By 
faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that 
believed not, when she had received the spies with 
peace. 



c. The Seven-Fold Triplicate Summary 

32 And what shall I more say? For the time would fail me to 
tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthas; of 
David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: 

* 

33 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, 
Wrought righteousness, 

Obtained promises; 
* 

Stopped the mouths of lions, 

34 Quenched the violence of fire, 
Escaped the edge of the sword; 

* 

Out of weakness were made strong, 
Waxed valiant in right, 
Turned to flight the armies of the aliens. 
* 

35 Women received their dead raised to life again : 
And others were tortured, not accepting deliver- 
ance, that they might obtain a better resurrection : 

36 And others had trial of cruel mockings and 
scourgings, yea, moreover, of bonds and imprison- 
ments. * 

37 They were stoned, 
They were sawn asunder, 

Were tempted, were slain with the sword ; 
* 

They wandered about in sheepskins and goat- 
skins; 

Being destitute, afflicted, tormented, 

38 [Of whom the world was not worthy] ; 

* 

They wandered in deserts, 

And in mountains, 

And in dens and caves of the earth. 

Chapter 11:30-38 



560 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 



39 And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, 
received not the promise : 40 God having provided 1 something 
better for us, that they without us should not be made perfect. 



m. THE GREAT IMPORTANCE OF FAITHFULNESS 
a. The Seven-Fold Duty of the Hour 

12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so 
great a cloud of witnesses, 

* * * 

Let us lay aside every weight, 

And the sin that doth so easily beset us, 

And let us run with patience the race that is 

set before us, 

2 Looking unto Jesus the author^ and finisher of 

our faith, 

Who for the joy that was set before him 

endured the cross, 

Despising the shame, 

And is set down at the right hand of the 

throne of God. 

3 For consider him that endured such contradiction against 
himself, lest you be wearied and faint in your minds. 4 You 
have not resisted unto blood, striving against sin. 5 And you 
have forgotten the exhortation that speaketh unto you as unto 
children: 3 



"My son, despise not thou the chastening of the 
Lord, 
Nor faint when thou art rebuked of him : 
6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, 
And scourgeth every son whom he receiveth." 

7 If you endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; 
for what son is he whom the Father chasteneth not? 8 But if 
you are without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then 
are you bastards, and not sons. 9 Furthermore we have had 
fathers of our flesh who corrected us, and we gave them reverence : 
shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of 
spirits, and live? 10 For they verily for a few days chastened us 

1 Or, foreseen. 2 Or, beginner. 3 Job 5:17. 

Chapter 11:39-12:10 



12:11 The Epistle to the Hebrews 561 

after their own pleasure; 1 but he for our profit, that we might 
be partakers of his holiness. 11 Now no chastening for the 
present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward 
it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them that are 
exercised thereby. 12 Wherfore lift up the hands that hang 
down, and the feeble knees: 13 and make straight 2 paths for 
your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but 
let it rather be healed. 



b. The Importance of a Holy Life 

14 Follow after peace with all men, and holiness, without which 
no man shall see the Lord: 15 looking diligently lest any man 
fail' of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up 
trouble you, and thereby many be denied; 16 lest there be any 
fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat 
sold his birthright. 17 For you know how that afterward, wjien 
he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected; for he 
found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with 
tears. 



IV. THE GLORY OF THE NEW DISPENSATION 
The Seven-Fold Kingdom of God 

18 For you have not come unto the mount that 
might be touched, 

And that burned with fire, 
Nor unto blackness, 
And darkness, 
And tempest, 

19 And the sound of a trumpet, 
And the voice of words ; 

* 

which voice they that heard intreated, that the word should not be 

spoken to them any more 20 [for they could not endure that 

which was commanded: 4 "And if so much as a beast touch the 

mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart:" 

21 and so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, "I exceedingly 

fear and quake"]: 

* * * 

22 But you are come unto Mount Zion ; 

And unto the city of the living God, the 
heavenly Jerusalem; 



1 Or, as seemed good, or, meet to them. J Or, even. 8 Or, fall from. 
4 Ex. 20:19. 

Chapter 12:11-22 



562 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

And, an innumerable company of angels ; 

23 To the general assembly and church of the 
firstborn, that are written in heaven ; 

And to God the Judge of all ; 

And to the spirits of just men made perfect ; 

24 And to Jesus, the mediator of the new cove- 
nant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh 
better things than that of Abel. 

* 

25 See that you refuse not him that speaketh, For if they 
escaped not who refused him that spoke on earth, much more 
shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from 
heaven: 26 whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath 
promised, saying, "Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but 
also heaven." 1 27 And this word, "Yet once more," signifieth 
the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things tha. 
are made, that those things that cannot be shaken may remaint 
28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom that cannot be moved, let 
us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with 
reverence and godly fear : 29 for our God is a consuming fire. 



1 Hag. 2:6. 

Chapter 12:23-29 



Dart Four 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE ADMONITIONS, SALUTATIONS AND BENEDICTION 

I. THE SEVEN-FOLD CONCLUDING ADMONITION 

The Practical Duties of Believers 

Let brotherly love continue. 

* 

2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby have 
some entertained angels unawares. 

* 

3 Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and 
them that suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. 

* 

4 Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled, but 
whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. 

* 

5 Let your conversation be without covetousness ; and be content 
with such things as you have: for he hath said, "I will never leave 
thee, nor forsake thee." l 6 So that we may boldly say, 

;£ H* S& 

"The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear 
What man shall do unto me." 2 

7 Remember them that have the rule over you, who have 
spoken unto you the word of God : whose faith follow, considering 
the end of their conversation. 8 Jesus Christ is the same yester- 
day, and to-day and for ever. 9 Be not carried away with divers 
and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be 
established with grace; not with meats, that have not profited 
them that have been occupied therein. 10 We have an altar, 
whereof they have no right to eat that serve the tabernacle. 
11 For the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the 
sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned without the camp. 

1 Gen. 28:15; Ps. 37:25. 2 Ps. 27:1. 

563 Chapter 13:1-11 



564 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

12 Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with 
his own blood, stiff ered without the gate. 13 Let us go forth 
therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach. 

14 For here we have no continuing city, but we seek one to come. 

15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God 
continually, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to his name. 

16 But to do good and communicate forget not; for with such 
sacrifices God is well pleased. 17 Obey them that have the rule 
over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, 
as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, 
and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. 

* 

18 Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all 
things willing to live honestly. 19 But I beseech you the rather 
to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner. 



II. THE BENEDICTION AND SALUTATION 

a. The Apostolic Benediction 

20 Now the God of peace, who brought again from the dead 
our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the 
blood of the everlasting covenant, 21 make you perfect in every 
good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing 
in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever 
and ever. Amen. 



b. The Autograph Exhortation and Salutation 

22 And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation; 
for I have written a letter to you in few words. 

* 

23 Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with 
whom if he come shortly, I will see you. 

* 

24 Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the 
saints. 

They of Italy salute you. 

25 Grace be with you all. Amen. 

* * * 
* * 

* 



The Epistle of James 



Part <$itf 
The Introduction 



THE GREETING OF JAMES 

THE SCATTERED DISCIPLES IN PALESTINE 

The Salutation 

James, 1 a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the 
twelve tribes that are scattered abroad, Greeting. 2 

1 James, the brother of the Lord, became the pastor of the Church in 
Jerusalem A.D. 42. He suffered martyrdom in Jerusalem A.D. 63. 

2 Greek — wisheth joy. 

Chapter 1:1 



567 



Part $ too 
The Instruction of James 



THE MEANING OF THE PRESENT LIFE 

I. THE MINISTRY OF TEMPTATION 

a. The Joy of Temptation 

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into divers tempta- 
tions; 3 knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh 
patience. 4 But let patience have her perfect work, that you may 
be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. 



b. The Prayer for Wisdom 

5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to 
all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 

6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that waver- 
eth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. 

7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of 
the Lord. 8 A doubleminded man is unstable in all his ways. 



c. The Importance of Humility 

9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: 
10 but the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of 
the grass he shall pass away. 11 For the sun is no sooner risen 
with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower 
thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth : so also 
shall the rich man fade away in his ways. 



d. The Meaning of Temptation 

12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he 
is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath 
promised to them that love him. 13 Let no man say when he is 
tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with 
evil, neither tempteth he any man : 14 but every man is tempted 
when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then 

569 Chapter 1:2-15 



570 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin : and sin, when it is 
finished, bringeth forth death. 16 Do not err, my beloved 
brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, 
and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no 
variableness, neither shadow of turning. 18 Of his own will begat 
he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first- 
fruits of his creatures. 



H. THE MINISTRY OF THE WORD OF GOD 
The Importance of Obedience 

19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to 
hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20 for the wrath of man 
worketh not the righteousness of God. 21 Therefore lay apart 
all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with 
meekness the engrafted worcL, which is able to save your souls. 
22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving 
your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a 
doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass : 
24 for he beholdeth himself and goeth his way, and straightway 
forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25 But whoso looketh 
into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being 
not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be 
blessed in his deed. 26 If any man among you seemeth to be 
religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, 
this man's religion is vain. 27 Pure religion and undefiled before 
God and the Father is this : To visit the fatherless and widows in 
their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. 



III. THE LAW OF LOVE 
The Word of God and Respect of Persons 

2:1 My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
the Lord of glory, with respect to persons. 2 For if there come 
into your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, 
and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment, 3 and you 
have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto 
him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou 
there, or, Sit here under my footstool : 4 are you not then partial 
in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? 5 
Hearken, my beloved brethren: Hath not God chosen the poor 
of this world, rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom that he hath 
promised to them that love him? 6 But you have despised the 
poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the 
judgment seats? 7 Do not they blaspheme that worthy name 

Chapter 1:16-2:7 



2:8 The Epistle of James 571 

by which you are called? 8 If you fulfil the royal law according 
to the scripture, "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself," 1 
you do well; 9 but if you have respect of persons, you commit 
sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. 10 For 
whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, 
he is guilty of all. 11 For he that said, "Do not commit adul- 
tery," said also, "Do not kill." 2 Now if thou commit no adultery, 
yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. 12 So 
speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of 
liberty. 13 For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath 
showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. 



IV. THE LAW OF FAITH 
The Proving of Faith by Works 

14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath 
faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother 
or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of 
you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; 
notwithstanding you give them not those things that are needful 
to the body; what doth it profit? 17 Even so faith, if it hath not 
works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast 
faith, and I have works : show me thy faith without thy works, and 
I will show thee my faith by my works. 19 Thou believest that 
there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and 
tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without 
works is dead? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by 
works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar ? 22 Seest 
thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith 
made perfect? 23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, 
"Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for right- 
eousness:" 3 and he was called the Friend of God. 4 24 You see 
then how that by works a man is justified and not by faith only. 
25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, 
when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out 
another way? 26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so 
faith without works is dead also. 



V. THE WISDOM OF HUMILITY 
The Right Use of the Tongue 

3:1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall 
receive the greater condemnation. 2 For in many things we offend 

1 Lev. 19:18. 2 Ex. 20:13, 14. 3 Gen. 15:6. 4 Isa. 41:8. 

Chapter 2:8-3:2 



572 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, 
and able also to bridle the whole body. 3 Behold, we put bits 
in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about 
their whole body. 4 Behold also the ships, which though they be 
so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about 
with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. 
5 Even so, the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great 
things. Behold, how great a matter 1 a little fire kindleth! 6 And 
the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our 
members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the 
course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. 7 For every kind of 
beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is 
tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: 8 but the tongue can 
no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 9 There- 
with bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men 
which are made after the similitude of God. 10 Out of the same 
mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these 
things ought not so to be. 11 Doth a fountain send forth at 
the same place sweet water and bitter? 12 Can the fig tree, my 
brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain 
yield both salt water and fresh. 



VI. THE LAW OF WISDOM 
The Seven-Fold Saying 

13 Who is a wise man, and endued with knowledge among you? 

let him show out of a good conversation his works with meekness 

of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envying and strife in your 

hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom 

descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 2 

16 For where envying and strife are, there is confusion and every 

evil work. 

* * * 

17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, 
Then peaceable, 
Gentle, 

And easy to be entreated, 
Full of mercy and good fruits, 
Without partiality, 
And without hypocrisy. 
* 

18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that 
make peace. 



1 Or, how great a forest. 2 Greek: demoniacal. 

Chapter 3:3-18 



4:1 The Epistle of James 573 

VII. THE LAW OF SALVATION 
The Sin of Worldliness 

4:1 From whence come wars and fightings among you? come 
they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? 
2 You lust, and have not; you kill, and desire to have, and cannot 
obtain; you fight and war, yet you have not, because you ask 
not. 3 You ask, and receive not, because you ask amiss, that you 
may consume it upon your lusts. 4 You adulterers and adul- 
teresses, know you not that the friendship of the world is enmity 
with God? Whosoever therefore shall be a friend of the world is 
the enemy of God. 5 Do you think that the scripture saith in 
vain, ' ' The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy ?" x 6 But he 
giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith: 

"God resisteth the proud, 
But giveth grace unto the humble." 2 
* 

7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. 
Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 

8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. 
Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; 

And purify your hearts, ye doubleminded. 

9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: 

Let your laughter be turned to mourning, 
And your joy to heaviness. 
10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, 
And he shall lift you up. 
* 

11 Speak not evil of one another, brethren. He that speaketh 
evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the 
law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not 
a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver, who is 
able to save and to destroy: who are thou that judgest another? 

*Prov. 21:10. 2 Prov. 3:34. 

Chapter 4:1-12 



Part ®ftm 
The Exhortation of James 



THE JUDGMENT TO COME 

THE WISDOM OF THE RELIGIOUS LIFE 

a. The Great Duty of the Hour 

Go to now, you that say, To day or to morrow we will go into 
such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get 
gain: 14 whereas you know not what shall be on the morrow. 
For what is your life? It is even a vapour that appeareth for a 
little time, and then vanisheth away. 15 For that you ought to 
say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that, 16 But 
now you rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil. 17 
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to 
him it is sin. 



b. The Curse of the World 

5:1 Go to now, you rich men, weep and howl for your miseries 
that shall come upon you. 2 Your riches are corrupted, and your 
garments are motheaten. 3 Your gold and silver are cankered; 
and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall 
eat your flesh as it were fire. You have heaped treasure together 
for the last days. 4 Behold, the hire of the labourers who have 
reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, 
crieth: and the cries of them that have reaped have entered into 
the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. 5 You have lived in pleasure 
on the earth, and been wanton; you have nourished your hearts, 
as in a day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned and killed the 
Just ; and he doth not resist you. 



c. The Approaching Coming of the Lord 

7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. 
Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the 
earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and 
latter rain. 8 Be ye also patient; establish your hearts: for the 
coming of the Lord draweth nigh. 9 Grudge not one against 

575 Chapter 4:13-5:9 



576 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

another, brethren, lest you be condemned: behold the judge 
standeth before the door. 10 Take, my brethren, the prophets, 
who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of 
suffering affliction and of patience. 11 Behold, we count them 
happy that endure. You have heard of the patience of Job, 
and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, 
and of tender mercy. 

d. The Importance of the Serious Mind 

12 But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by 
heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let 
your yea be yea ; and your nay, nay ; lest you fall into condemnation. 



e. The Exhortation to Earnest Prayer 

13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? 
let him sing psalms. 14 Is any sick among you? let him call for 
the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing 
him with oil in the name of the Lord: 15 and the prayer of faith 
shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up ; and if he have 
committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. 16 Confess your 
faults one to another, and pray one for another, that you may be 
healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth 
much. 17 Elijah was a man subject to like passions as we are, 
and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain : and it rained not 
on the earth by the space of three years and six months. 18 And 
he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought 
forth her fruit. 

Chapter 5:10-18 



Part Four 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE DUTY TOWARD THE ERRING 

THE SALVATION FROM DEATH 

The Covering of Many Sins 

Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert 

him; 20 let him know, that he that converteth the sinner from 

the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a 

multitude of sins. 

* * * 

* * 

* 



577 



The First Epistle of Peter 



Part $iu 
The Introduction 



THE JEWISH BELIEVERS IN ASIA MINOR 

THE APOSTLE'S SALUTATION 

The Saints in Five Provinces 

Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered 
throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, 2 
elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through 
sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the 
blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace be multiplied. 

1 Written from Rome, some think during the Neronian persecution— A. D. 
64-68; but more probably during the Flavian persecution — A. D. 81-96. 

Chapter 1:1-2 



581 



Part $too 
The Instruction of Peter 



THE GREATNESS OF CHRISTIANITY 

I. THE GREATNESS OF THE CHRISTIAN SALVATION 

The Living Hope in Jesus Christ 

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
who according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again 
unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the 
dead, 4 to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and 
that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are 
kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready 
to be revealed in the last time. 6 Wherein you greatly rejoice, 
though now for a season, if need be, you are in heaviness through 
manifold temptations: 7 that the trial of your faith, being 
much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be 
tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory 
at the appearing of Jesus Christ : 8 whom having not seen, you 
love; in whom, though now you see him. not, yet believing, you 
rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: 9 receiving the 
end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. 10 Of which 
salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, 
who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: 11 
searching what time, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ 
which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the 
sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. 12 Unto 
whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us did 
they minister the things, that are reported unto you by them that 
have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Spirit sent 
down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into. 



H. THE GREATNESS OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 
The Importance of the Serious Mind 

13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and 
hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at 
the revelation of Jesus Christ; 14 as obedient children, not 
fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your igno- 

583 Chapter 1:3-14 



584 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

ranee : 15 but as he that hath called you is holy, so be ye holy 
in all manner of conversation; 16 because it is written, "Be ye 
holy; for I am holy." 1 17 And if you call on the Father, who 
without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's 
work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: 18 foras- 
much as you know that you were not redeemed with corruptible 
things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received 
by tradition from your fathers; 19 but with the precious blood 
of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 
who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, 
but was manifest in these last times for you, 21 who by him 
do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave 
him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. 22 Seeing 
you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the 
Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that you love one 
another with a pure heart fervently : 23 being born again, not of 
corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which 
liveth and abideth for ever. 24 For, 

* * * 

"All flesh is as grass, 
And all the glory of man as the flower of grass. 
The grass withereth, 
And the flower thereof falleth away; 
25 But the word of the Lord endureth for ever." 2 
* 

And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you. 



III. THE GREATNESS OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 
The Chosen People of God 

2 : 1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypo- 
crisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 as newborn babes, 
desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby: 
3 if so be that you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. 4 To 
whom coming, as unto sl living stone, disallowed indeed of men, 
but chosen of God, and precious, 5 you also, as lively stones, 
are built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up 
spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 6 Where- 
fore also it is contained in the scripture : 

* * * 

"Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, 
precious : 
And he that believeth on him shall not be 
confounded." 3 



1 Lev. 11:44. 2 Isa. 40:6f. 3 Isa. 28:16. 

Chapter 1:15-2:6 



2:7 The First Epistle of Peter 585 

7 Unto you therefore that believe he is precious: but unto them 
that are disobedient, the stone that the builders disallowed, the 
same is made the head of the corner, 8 and a stone of stumbling, 
and a rock of offence, even to them that stumble at the word, being 
disobedient : whereunto also they were appointed. 

* * * 
9 But you are a chosen generation, 
* 
A royal priesthood, 

A holy nation, 

A peculiar people; 

* 

That you should show forth the praises of him 
Who hath called you out of darkness into his 
marvellous light ; 

10 Who in time past were no people, 
But are now the people of God ; 

Who had not obtained mercy, 
But now have obtained mercy. 

Chapter 2:7-10 



Part ®&m 
The Exhortation of Peter 



THE CHURCH OF CHRIST IN THE WORLD 

1. THE BROTHERHOOD OF BELIEVERS 

a. The Adomonition to Circumspection 

Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, 
abstain from fleshly lusts, that war against the soul; 12 having 
your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas 
they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good 
works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visita- 
tion. 



b. The Relation of Subject and Ruler 

13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's 
sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 or unto gover- 
nors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of 
evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. 15 For so 
is the will of God, that with well doing you may put to silence the 
ignorance of foolish men: 16 as free, and not using your liberty 
for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. 17 
Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour 
the king. 



c. The Relation of Slave and Master 

18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not 
only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. 19 For 
this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure 
grief, suffering wrongfully. 20 For what glory is it, if, when 
you are buffeted for your faults, you shall take it patiently? 
but if, when you do well, and suffer for it, you take it patiently, 
this is acceptable with God. 21 For even hereunto were you 
called : because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, 
that we should follow his steps: 22 who did no sin, neither was 
guile found in his mouth: 23 who, when he was reviled, reviled 

587 Chapter 2:11-23 



588 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed 
himself to him that judgeth righteously: 24 who his own self 
bare our sins in his body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, 
should live unto righteousness : by whose stripes you were healed. 
25 For you were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto 
the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. 



d. The Relation of Wife and Husband 

3 : 1 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands ; 
that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word 
be won by the conversation of the wives; 2 while they behold 
your chaste conversation coupled with fear. 3 Whose adorning let 
it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing 
of gold, or of putting on of apparel ; 4 but let it be the hidden man 
of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of 
a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great 
price. 5 For after this manner in the old time the holy women 
also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection 
unto their own husbands: 6 even as Sarah obeyed Abraham, 
calling him lord: whose daughters you are, as long as you do 
well, and are not afraid with any amazement. 7 Likewise ye 
husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour 
unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, as being heirs together 
of the grace of life ; that your prayers be not hindered. 



II. THE CHRISTIAN CHARACTER AND CONDUCT 
a. The Importance of Harmony 

8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of 
another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 9 not render- 
ing evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; 
knowing that you are therefore called, that you should inherit a 

blessing. 

* * * 

10 "For he that will love life, 

And see good days, 

Let him refrain his tongue from evil, 

And his lips that they speak no guile: 

11 Let him eschew evil and do good; 
Let him seek peace, and ensue it. 

12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, 
And his ears are open unto their prayers : 

Chapter 2:24-3:12 



3:13 The First Epistle of Peter 589 

But the face of the Lord is against them that do 
evil."» 



b. The Reward of Christian Martyrdom 

13 And who is he that will harm you, if you are followers 
of that which is good? 14 But and if you suffer for righteous- 
ness' sake, happy are you: and be not afraid of their terror, neither 
be troubled; 15 but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: 
and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh 
you a reason for the hope that is in you with meekness and fear : 
16 having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of 
you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse 
your good conversation in Christ. 17 For it is better, if the will 
of God be so, that you suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. 
18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the 
unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the 
flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: 19 by which also he went 
and preached unto the spirits in prison; 20 which sometime 
were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the 
days of Noah, while the ark was preparing, wherein few, that is, 
eight souls were saved by water. 21 The like figure whereunto 
even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the 
filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward 
God), by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: 22 who is gone into 
heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities 
and powers being made subject unto him. 



c. The Mind of the Suffering Christ 

4 : 1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the 
flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that 
hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; 2 that he no 
longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of 
men, but to the will of God. 3 For the time past of our life may 
suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we 
walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, ban- 
quetings, and abominable idolatries: 4 wherein they think it 
strange that you run not with them to the same excess of riot, 
speaking evil of you: 5 who shall give account to him that is 
ready to judge the quick and the dead. 6 For this cause was the 
gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be 
judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God 
in the spirit. 

i Ps. 34:12. 

Chapter 3:13-4:6 



590 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

d. The Approaching End of All Things 

7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, 
and watch unto prayer. 8 And above all things have fervent 
charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude 
of sins. 9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging. 
10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same 
one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of 
God. 11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; 
if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God 
giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus 
Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. 



IH. THE MARTYRDOM FOR THE FAITH 
The Trust in God in the Midst of Death 

12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial 
which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened 
unto you: 13 but rejoice, inasmuch as you are partakers of 
Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, you 
may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14 If you be reproached 
for the name of Christ, happy are you; for the spirit of glory and 
of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but 
on your part he is glorified. 15 But let none of you suffer as a 
murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in 
other men's matters. 16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian 
let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. 
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of 
God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that 
obey not the gospel of God? 18 And if the righteous scarcely 
be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? 19 
Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God, 
commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a 
faithful Creator. 



IV. THE DUTIES OF THE CHURCH 
a. The Responsibility of Pastors 

5 : 1 The elders that are among you I exhort, who am also an 
elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker 
of the glory that shall be revealed : 2 feed the flock of God that 
is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but 
willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3 neither as 
being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock. 
4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, you shall receive 
a crown of glory that fadeth not away. 

Chapter 4:7-5:4 



5:5 The First Epistle of Peter 591 

b. The Responsibility of the Believers 

5 Likewise, you younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. 
Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with 
humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the 
humble. 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty 
hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7 casting all 
your care upon him, for he careth for you. 8 Be sober, be vigilant ; 
because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh 
about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 whom resist stedfast 
in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished 
in your brethren that are in the world. 10 But the God of all 
grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, 
after that you have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, 
strengthen, settle you. 



c. The Doxology 
11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. 



Part IFottr 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE APOSTLE'S CLOSING WORD 

THE COMMENDATION, SALUTATIONS AND BENEDICTION 

a. The Commendation of Silvanus 

By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have 
written briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace 
of God wherein you stand. 



b. The Salutations 



13 The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, 
saluteth you; and so doth Mark my son. 14 Greet ye one 
another with a holy kiss of charity. 



c. The Benediction 

Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen. 



* * * 
* * 



593 



The Second Epistle of Peter 



Part <$tt? 
The Introduction 



THE FELLOW-BELIEVERS IN CHRIST 
THE ENTRANCE INTO THE KINGDOM OF CHRIST 

The Salutation 

Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them 
that have obtained like precious faith with us through the 
righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: 2 Grace 
and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God 
and of Jesus our Lord, 3 according as his divine power hath 
given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, 
through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and 
virtue: 4 whereby are given unto us exceeding great and pre- 
cious promises: that by these you might be partakers of the 
divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world 
through lust. 5 And beside this, giving all diligence, 

* * * 

Add to your faith virtue; 
And to virtue knowledge ; 

6 And to knowledge temperance; 

* 

And to temperance patience; 

And to patience godliness; 
* 

7 And to godliness brotherly-kindness; 

And to brotherly-kindness charity. 
* 

8 For if these be in you, and abound, they make you that you 
shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our 

1 Second Peter is believed to have been written during the reign of Em- 
peror Domitian, A. D. 81-96. 

597 Chapter 1:1-8 



598 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, 
and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged 
from his old sins. 10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give 
diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if you do 
these things you shall never fall; 11 for so an entrance shall 
be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom 
of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. 

Chapter 1:9-11 



Part $too 
The Instruction of Peter 



THE EYEWITNESSES OF HIS MAJESTY 

THE MINISTRY TO THE CHURCH 

a. The Approaching End and Care of the Church 

Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in 
remembrance of these things, though you know them, and are 
established in the present truth. 13 Yea, I think it meet, as 
long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you 
in remembrance; 14 knowing that shortly I must put off this 
my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath snowed me. * 
15 Moreover I will endeavor that you may be able after my 
decease to have these things always in remembrance. 



b. The Knowledge and Authority of Peter 

16 For we did not follow cunningly devised fables, when we 
made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus 
Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received 
from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a 
voice to him from the Excellent Glory, "This is my beloved Son, 
in whom I am well pleased." 2 18 And this voice which came 
from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. 

19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto you 
do well that you take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark 
place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 

20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any 
private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old 
time by the will of man : but holy men of God spoke as they were 
moved by the Holy Spirit. 3 



c. The False Teachers and their Ruin 
2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, 4 



1 Peter is probably under arrest and sentence of death for the faith. 
John21:18f. 

2 The transfiguration. 3 II. Sam. 23:2. 4 Deut. 13:1. 

599 Chapter 1:12-2:1 



600 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privately 
shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that 
bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. 
2 And many shall follow their pernicious 1 ways; by reason of 
whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. 3 And through 
covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise 
of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and 
their damnation slumbereth not. 4 And if God spared not the 
angels 2 that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered 
them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; 
5 and spared not the old world, 3 but saved Noah the eighth 
person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the 
world of the ungodly; 6 and turning the cities 4 of Sodom and 
Gomorrah into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making 
them an example unto those that after should live ungodly; 7 
and delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the 
wicked; 8 [For that righteous man dwelling among them, in 
seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with 
their unlawful deeds]: 9 the Lord knoweth how to deliver the 
godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day 
of judgment to be punished: 10 but chiefly them that walk 
after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. 
Presumptuous are they, self willed, they are not afraid to speak 
evil of dignities. 11 Whereas angels, who are greater in power 
and might, bring not railing accusations against them before 
the Lord. 

d. The Marks of False Teachers 

12 But these, as natural brute, made to be taken and destroyed, 
speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall 
utterly perish in their own corruption; 13 and shall receive 
the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to 
riot in the daytime. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting 
themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; 
14 having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; 
beguiling unstable souls : a heart they have exercised with covetous 
practices; cursed children: 15 who have forsaken the right 
way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam 5 the son 
of Bosor , who loved the wages of righteousness ; 16 but was rebuked 
for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man's voice forbad 
the madness of the prophet. 17 These are wells without water, 
clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of 
darkness is reserved for ever. 18 For when they speak great 



1 Or, lascivious. 2 Job. 4:18. 3 Gen. 7:1. 4 Gen. 19:24. 

5 Num. 22. 

Chapter 2:2-18 



2:19 The Second Epistle of Peter 601 

swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the 
flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped 
from them who live in error. 19 While they promise them 
liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of 
whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. 
20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world 
through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, 
they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end 
is worse with them than the beginning. 21 For it had been 
better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, 
than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy command- 
ment delivered unto them. 22 But it is happened unto them 
according to the true proverb : 

* * * 

"The dog is turned to his own vomit again; 
And the sow that was washed to her wallowing in 
the mire." 1 



iProv. 26:11. 

Chapter 2:19-22 



The Exhortation of Peter 



THE TRUE TIME OF LAST THINGS 

THE SECOND COMING OF JESUS 

a. The Creation and End of the World 

This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both of 
which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: 2 
that you may be mindful of the words that were spoken before 
by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles 
of the Lord and Saviour; 3 knowing this first, that there shall 
come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4 
and saying, Where is the promise of his coming ? for since the fathers 
fell asleep all things continue as they were from the beginning of 
the creation. 5 For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by 
the word of God l the heavens were of old, and the earth standing 
out .of the water and in the water: 6 whereby the world that 
then was, being overflowed with water, perished: 2 7 but the 
heavens and the earth, that are now, by the same word are kept 
in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment 3 and 
perdition of ungodly men. 

b. The New Heavens and New Earth 

8 But beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one 
day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years 
as one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, 
as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering toward us, 
not willing that any should perish, but that all should come 
to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief 
in the night; in which the heavens shall pass away with a great 
noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth 
also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 11 
Seeing then that these things shall be dissolved, what manner of 
persons ought you to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 
12 looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, 
wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the 
elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, 
according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, 
wherein dwelleth righteousness. 

1 Gen. 1:6. 1 Gen. 7:11. x Matt. 25:41. 

603 Chapter 3:1-13 



Part Four 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE PREPARATION FOR THE SECOND COMING 

THE APOSTLE'S CLOSING EXHORTATION 
c. The Preparation of the Church 

P Wherefore, beloved, seeing that you look or such things, be 
diligent that you may be found of him in peace, without spot, 
and blameless. 15 And account that the longsuffering of our 
Lord is salvation ; even as our beloved brother Paul also according 
to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; 16 as 
also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in 
which are some things hard to be understood, which they that 
are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scrip- 
tures, unto their own destruction. 17 You therefore, beloved, 
seeing you know these things before, beware lest you also, being 
led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own sted- 
fastness. 18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our 
Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. 



d. The Apostle's Benediction 
To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. 



605 



The First Epistle of John 



Prologue 

The Manifestation of the Spiritual 

Life 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 

THE TESTIMONY OF EYEWITNESSES 

The Apostolic Witness of John 

That which was from the beginning, 

* 

Which we have heard, 

* 

Which we have seen with our eyes, 

* 

Which we have looked upon, 

* 

And our hands have handled, of the Word of life 2 [For 

the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, 

and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, 

and manifested unto us] : 

* 

3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, 
that you also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellow- 
ship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 

* 

4 And these things write we unto you that your joy may be full. 

1 Written probably at Ephesus toward the close of the first century. 
For the literary plan of the Epistle see the Int. Crit. Com. 

Chapter 1:1-4 



609 



Part <$>nt 
The Ethical and the Spiritual 



THE REALITY OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

THE SALVATION FROM SIN UNTO RIGHTEOUSNESS 
Seven-Fold Message 



This then is the message which we have heard of him, and 
declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at 
all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in 
darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 but if we walk in the 
light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, 
and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. 
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the 
truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just 
to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 
10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his 
word is not in us. 

ii. 

2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that you 
sin not. And if any man sin, we have an Advocate with the 
Father, Jesus Christ the righteous : 2 and he is the propitiation 
for our sins : and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole 
world. 3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep 
his commandments. 4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth 
not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 
5 But who so keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God 
perfected : hereby know we that we are in him. 6 He that saith 
he abide th in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. 



7 Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an 
old commandment which you had from the beginning. The old 
commandment is the word which you have heard from the begin- 
ning. 8 Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which 
thing is true in him and in you : because the darkness is past, and 
the true light now shineth. 9 He that saith he is in the light, and 
hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. 10 He that 

611 Chapter 1:5-2:10 



612 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is no occasion 
of stumbling in him. 11 But he that hateth his brother is in 
darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he 
goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes. 



12 I write unto you, little children, because your sins are 
forgiven you for his name's sake. 13 I write unto you, fathers, 
because you have known him that is from the beginning. I write 
unto you, young men, because you have overcome the wicked one. 
I write unto you, little children, because you have known the 
Father. 14 I have written unto you, fathers, because you have 
known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, 
young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abideth 
in you, and you have overcome the wicked one. 15 Love not 
the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man 
love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all 
that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, 
and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 
17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he 
that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. 



18 Little children, it is the last time: and as you have heard 
that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; 
whereby we know that it is the last time. 19 They went ouc 
from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they 
would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that 
they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. 20 But 
you have an unction from the Holy One, and you know all things. 
21 I have not written unto you because you know not the truth, 
but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth. 



22 Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? 
He is antichrist that denieth the Father and the Son. 23 Whoso- 
ever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: but he that 
acknowledged the Son hath the Father also. 24 Let that therefore 
abide in you, which you have heard from the beginning. If that 
which you have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, you 
also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father. 25 And this 
is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. 

vii. 

26 These things have I written unto you concerning them that 
seduce you. 27 But the anointing which you have received of 
him abideth in you, and you need not that any man teach you: 

Chapter 2:11-27 



2:28 The First Epistle of John 613 

but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, 
and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, you shall abide in him. 
28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall 
appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him 
at his coming. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you know 
that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him. 

Chapter 2:28-29 



Part $too 

The Relation of the Ethical and 
the Spiritual 



THE SIGN OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

THE WONDERFUL LOVE OF GOD 

The Seven-Fold Message 



Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, 
that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world 
knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are 
we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be : 
but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for 
we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope 
in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 



4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for 
sin is the transgression of the law. 5 And you know that he 
was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. 6 
Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath 
not seen him, neither known him. 



7 Little children, let no man deceive you : he that doeth right- 
eousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. 8 He that com- 
mitteth sin is of the devil ; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. 
For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might 
destroy the works of the devil. 9 Whosoever is born of God 
doth not commit sin ; for his seed remaineth in him : and he cannot 
sin, because he is born of God. 10 In this the children of God are 
manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not 
righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. 

iv. 

11 For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, 
that we should love one another. 12 Not as Cain, who was of 
that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he 

615 Chapter 3:1-12 



616 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's right- 
eous. 13 Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 14 We 
know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love 
the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. 
15 Whoso hateth his brother is a murderer: and you know that 
no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. 16 Hereby per- 
ceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us : and 
we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17 But whoso 
hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and 
shutteth up his heart of compassion from him, how dwelleth the 
love of God in him? 



18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; 
but in deed and in truth. 19 And hereby we know that we are 
of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 20 For if 
our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth 
all things. 21 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have 
we confidence toward God. 22 And whatsoever we ask, we 
receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those 
things that are pleasing in his sight. 

vi. 

23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on 
the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave 
us commandment. 24 And he that keepeth his commandments 
dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he 
abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us. 

vii. 

4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether 
they are of God : because many false prophets have gone out into 
the world. 2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit 
that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 
3 and every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come 
in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, 
whereof you have heard that it should come; and even now already 
is it in the world. 4 You are of God, little children, and have 
overcome them; because greater is he that is in you, than he that 
is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they 
of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: 
he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth 
not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of 
error. 

Chapter 3:13-4:6 



Part ©m 

The Oneness of the Ethical and the 

Spiritual 



THE SUPREMACY OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

THE COMPLETE ASSURANCE OF LOVE 

The Seven-Fold Message 



Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every 
one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that 
loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 9 In this was 
manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his 
only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. 
10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, 
and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 

ii. 

1 1 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. 
12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, 
God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. 

iii. 

13 Hereby we know that we dwell in him, and he in us, because 
he hath given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and do testify 
that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. 15 
Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth 
in him, and he in God. 16 And we have known and believed the 
love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in 
love dwelleth in God, and God in him. 



17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness 
in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. 
18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: 
because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect 
in love. 19 We love him, because he first loved us. 20 If a man 
say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that 
loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God 
whom he hath not seen? 21 And this commandment have we 
from him, "That he who loveth God love his brother also." 

617 Chapter 4:7-21 



618 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 



V. 



5:1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of 
God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also 
that is begotten of him. 2 By this we know that we love the 
children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 
3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: 
and his commandments are not grievous. 4 For whosoever is 
born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that 
overcometh the world, even our faith. 



5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth 
that Jesus is the Son of God? 6 This is he that came by water 
and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water 
and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because 
the Spirit is truth. 7 For there are three that bear record in 
heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit : and these three 
are one. 8 And there are three that bear witness in earth, the 
Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. 

9 If we receive the witness of men, and witness of God is greater : 
for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. 

10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself : 
he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because, he 
believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. 11 And this 
is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life 
is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that 
hath not the Son of God hath not life. 



13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the 
name of the Son of God; that you may know that you have eternal 
life, and that you may believe on the name of the Son of God. 
14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask 
anything according to his will, he heareth us: 15 and if we know 
that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the 
petitions that we desired of him. 16 If any man see his brother 
sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give 
him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto 
death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. 17 All unrighteous- 
ness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death. 

Chapter 5:1-17 



The Supremacy of the Spiritual 



THE CHRISTIAN TRIUMPH 

THE LIFE IN JESUS CHRIST 

The Seven-Fold Knowledge of the Believer 

We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not ; 
But he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that 
wicked one toucheth him not. 

19 And we know that we are of God, and the whole world 
lieth in wickedness. 

20 And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given 
us an understanding that we may know him that is true, 

And we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. 
This is the true God, and eternal life. 

21 Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen. 

* * * 
* * 



619 



The Second Epistle of John 



Port 4btt? 
The Introduction 



THE ELECT LADY IN CHRIST 

THE TRUTH IN CHRIST 

The Salutation 

The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in 
the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the 
truth; 2 for the truth's sake, that dwelleth in us, and shall be 
with us for ever : 3 Grace be with you, Mercy, and Peace, from 
God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the 
Father, in truth and love. 

Chapter 1:1-3 



623 



Part ©too 
The Apostles Message 



THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST 

THE TRUE AND THE FALSE IN CHRIST 
The Importance of Faithfulness and Circumspection 

I greatly rejoice that I have found certain of thy children walking 
in the truth, as we have received a commandment from the 
Father. 5 And now I beseech thee, Lady, not as though I wrote 
a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the 
beginning, That we love one another. 1 6 And this is love, that 
we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, 
that, as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it. 
7 For many deceivers have entered into the world, who confess 
not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver, and 
an antichrist. 8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things 
that we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. 9 
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, 
hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath 
both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, 
and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither 
bid him Godspeed: 11 for he that biddeth him Godspeed is 
partaker of his evil deeds. 

*John 15:12. 

Chapter 1:4-11 



625 



fyart ®&m 

The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE MESSAGES OF JOHN 

THE APOSTLE'S PLANS 

a. The Proposed Visit to the Disciples 

Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with 
paper and ink : but I trust to come unto you, and speak with you 
face to face, that our joy may be full. 



b. The Closing Salutation 
13 The children of thy elect sister greet thee.jjj Amen. 



* * * 

* * 

* 



The Third Epistle of John 



Part <0w 

The Introduction 



THE WALK IN THE TRUTH 

THE SALUTATION AND THANKSGIVING 

The Salutation 

The elder, unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in 
the truth. 



b. The Thanksgiving 

2 Beloved, I wish " above all things that thou mayest prosper 
and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. 3 For I rejoiced 
greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that 
is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. 4 I have no greater 
joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. 

1 Or, pray. 

Chapter 1:1-4 



631 



Jtort QLm 
The Apostles Message 



THE COMMENDATIONS AND WARNINGS 

I. THE COMMENDATION OF GAIUS 

The Care of Persecuted Believers 

Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the 
brethren, and to strangers; 6 who have borne witness to thy 
charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their 
journey after a godly sort, 1 thou shalt do well: 7 because that 
for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. 
8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellow- 
helpers to the truth. 

H. THE WARNING AGAINST DIOTREPHES 
The Desire for Pre-eminence 

9 I wrote unto the church : but Diotrephes, who loveth to have 
the pre-eminence among them, receiveth us not. 10 Wherefore 
if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating 
against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, 
neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them 
that would, and casteth them out of the church. 11 Beloved, 
follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that 
doeth good is of God : but he that doeth evil hath not seen God. 
12 Demetrius hath a good report of all men, and of the truth 
itself: yea, and we also bear record; and you know that our record 
is true. 



Worthy of God. 

Chapter 1:5-12 



633 



Part ®{)m 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE MESSAGES OF JOHN 

THE PLANS, BENEDICTION AND SALUTATIONS 

a. The Apostle's Plans 

I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen 
write unto thee; 14 but I trust I shall shortly see thee, and 
we shall speak face to face. 



b. The Benediction 

Peace be to thee. 



c. The Salutations 



Our friends salute thee. Greet the friends by name. 

* * * 
* * 



635 



The Epistle of Jude 



Part <g)n? 
The Introduction 



THE GREETING OF JUDE 

THE CALLED, BELOVED AND KEPT 

The Salutation 

Jude, 2 the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to 
them that are sanctified 8 by God the Father, and preserved in 
Jesus Christ, and called : 2 Mercy unto you, and Peace, and Love, 
be multiplied. 



1 The Epistle of Jude is usually dated between First and Second Peter, 
and was probably written in Judaea. Jude was one of the brethren of the 
Lord. 

* Greek, Judas. 3 Or, beloved. 

Chapter 1:1-2 



639 



Part (Etoo 
The Instruction of Jude 



THE ENEMIES OF THE FAITH OF CHRIST 

THE DEFENSE OF THE TRUE FAITH 
a. The Presence of Corrupt Men 

Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the com- 
mon salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort 
you that you should earnestly contend for the faith that was once 
for all delivered unto the saints. 4 For there are certain men who 
have crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this 
condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into 
lasciviousness, and denying 1 the only Lord God, and our Lord 
Jesus Christ. 



b. The Ancient Examples of Israel 

5 I will therefore put you in remembrance, though you once 
knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the 
land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. 
6 And the angels that kept not their first estate, but left their 
own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under 
darkness unto the judgment of the great day. 7 Even as Sodom 
and Gomorrah, and the cities about them in like manner, giving 
themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are 
set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. 



c. The Enemies of the Present Day 

8 Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise 
dominion, and speak evil of dignities. 9 Yet Michael the arch- 
angel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body 
of Moses, dared not bring against him a railing accusation, but 
said, ' 'The Lord rebuke thee." 2 10 But these speak evil of those 
things that they know not: but what they know naturally, as 
brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves. 11 Woe 

1 Or, "denying our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ." 
»Zech. 3:2. 

641 Chapter 1:3-11 



642 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily 
after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying 
of Korah. 12 These are spots in your feasts of charity, when 
they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they 
are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit 
withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; 
13 raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wander- 
ing stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever. 



d. The Prophecy of Enoch 

14 And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of 
these, saying: 

1 'Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands 
of his saints, 15 to execute judgment upon all, 
and to convince all that are ungodly among them of 
their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly 
committed, and of all their hard speeches which 
ungodly sinners have spoken against him." 1 

* 

16 These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own 
lusts; and their mouths speaketh great swelling words, having 
men's persons in admiration because of advantage. 

iSeeDeut. 33:2. 

Chapter 1:12-16 



Part (E&m 
The Exhortation of Jude 



THE WORDS OF THE APOSTLES 

THE IMPORTANCE OF CIRCUMSPECTION 

The Care of the Spiritual Life 

But ye, beloved, remember ye the words that were spoken 
before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; 18 how they 
told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should 
walk after their own ungodly lusts. 19 These are they that 
separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. 20 But, 
beloved, building up yourselves in your most holy faith, praying 
in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep ye yourselves in the love of God, 
looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. 
22 And on some have compassion, making a difference; 23 and 
others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire ; hating even the 
garment spotted by the flesh. 

Chapter 1:17-23 



643 






. 



Part Four 
The Conclusion of the Epistle 



THE ONLY WISE GOD OUR SAVIOUR 

THE GREAT INTERCESSOR 

The Benediction 

Now unto him that is able to guard you from falling, and to 
present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding 
joy, 25 to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, 
dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen. 

* * * 

* 



645 



The Revelation of John 



H-fl 



Prologu? 
The Messages for the Seven Churches 1 



§1. THE INTRODUCTION 

THE SUPERSCRIPTION AND SALUTATION 

a. The Superscription 

The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to 
show unto his servant things that must shortly come to pass; 
and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: 
2 who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of 
Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. 3 Blessed is he that 
readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep 
those things that are written therein, for the time is at hand. 



b. The Salutation 

4 John to the seven churches that are in Asia : 2 Grace be unto 
you, and peace, from him who is, and who was, and who is to 
come; and from the seven spirits that are before his throne; 
5 and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first 
begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. 

* 

Unto him that loved us, 

And washed us from our sins in his own blood, 

6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God 

and his Father ; 

To him be glory and dominion for ever and 

ever. Amen. 

* 

7 Behold, he cometh with the clouds; 
And every eye shall see him, 

And they also that pierced him : 

And all kindreds of the earth shall wail because 

of him. 
Even so. Amen. 



1 Written at Ephesus in Asia, A. D. 96, upon the death of Emperor 
Domitian and release of John from Patmos. 

2 Roman province in Asia Minor. 






649 Chapter 1:1-7 



650 The Greatest Book Ever Written 



8 "I am Alpha and Omega, 

The beginning and the ending," saith the Lord, 
"Who is, and who was, and who is to come, 
The Almighty." 

§2. THE GREAT REVELATION TO JOHN 

THE VISION OF THE SON OF MAN 

The Commission of John to Write 

9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribula- 
tion, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the 
isle called Patmos for the word of God, and the testimony of 
Jesus Christ. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard 
behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, 11 saying: 

* * * 

"I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: 
and what thou seest write in a book, and send it unto 
the seven churches that are in Asia : 

* 

Unto Ephesus, 
And unto Smyrna, 
And unto Pergamos, 
And unto Thyatira, 
And unto Sardis, 
And unto Philadelphia, 
And unto Laodicasa." 
* 

12 And I turned to see the voice that spoke with me, and having 
turned I saw seven golden candlesticks; 13 and in the midst of 
the seven golden candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, 1 
clothed with a garment down to his foot, and girt about the paps 

with a golden girdle. 

* * * 

14 His head and his hair were white like wool, as 

white as snow; 
And his eyes were as a flame of fire; 

15 And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they 

burned in a furnace ; 
And his voice as the sound of many waters. 

16 And in his right hand seven stars: 

And out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged 

sword : 
And his countenance was as the sun shineth in his 

strength. 






1 The seven-fold description of the Son of Man. 

Chapter 1:8-16 






1:17 The Revelation of John 651 

17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And 
he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, "Fear not; I 
am the first and the last: 18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; 
and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys 
of hell and of death. 19 Write the things that thou hast seen, 
and the things that are, and the things that shall be hereafter; 
20 the mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right 
hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are 
the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks 
which thou sawest are the seven churches." 



§3. THE MESSAGES FOR THE CHURCHES 

I. THE MESSAGE FOR THE CHURCH AT EPHESUS 
The Fruit from the Tree of Life 

2:1 "Unto the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These 
things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who 
walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks ; 2 I know 
thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst 
not bear them that are evil : and thou hast tried them that say they 
are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: 3 and hast 
borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, 
and hast not fainted. 4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against 
thee, because thou last left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore 
from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or 
else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candle- 
stick out of his place, except thou repent. 6 But this thou hast, 
that thou hat est the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate. 
7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto 
the churches : To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the 
tree of life, that is in the midst of the paradise of God." 



H. THE CHURCH IN SMYRNA 
The Crown for the Faithful 

8 "And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These 
things saith the First and the Last, who was dead, and is alive; 
9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty [but thou art 
rich], and I know the blasphemy of them that say they are Jews, 
and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. 10 Fear none of 
those things that thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast 
some of you into prison, that you may be tried; and you shall 
have tribulation ten days : be thou faithful unto death, and I will 

Chapter 1:17-2:10 



652 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

give thee a crown of life. 11 He that hath an ear, let him hear 
what the Spirit saith unto the churches; 'He that overcometh 
shall not be hurt of the second death.' " 



III. THE CHURCH IN PERGAMOS 
The Hidden Manna, the White Stone and the New Name 

12 "And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write: These 
things saith he that hath the sharp sword with two edges: 13 I 
know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat 
is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, 
even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who 
was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. 14 But I have a few 
things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the 
doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock 
before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and 
to commit fornication. 15 So hast thou also them that hold the 
doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. 16 Repent; or 
else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with 
the sword of my mouth. 17 He that hath an ear, let him hear 
what the Spirit saith unto the churches ; To him that overcometh 
will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white 
stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth 
saving he that receiveth It.% 



IV. THE CHURCH IN THYATIRA 
The Nations of the World 

18 "And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write: These 
things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of 
fire, and his feet are like fine brass; 19 I know thy works, and 
charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; 
and the last to be more than the first. 20 Notwithstanding I have 
a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman 
Jezebel, who calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce 
my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed 
unto idols. 21 And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; 
and she repented not. 22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and 
them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except 
they repent of their deeds. 23 And I will kill her children with 
death ; and all the churches shall know that I am he that searcheth 
the reins and hearts : and I will give unto every one of you according 
to your works. 24 But unto you I say, and unto the rest in 
Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and that have not 
known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you no 

Chapter 2:10-24 



2:25 The Revelation of John 653 

other burden. 25 But that which ye have already hold fast till I 
come. 26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto 
the end, to him will I give power over the nations: 27 and he 
shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall 
they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. 28 
And I will give him the morning star. 29 He that hath an ear, 
let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." 



V. THE CHURCH IN SARDIS 

The White Raiment for the Worthy 

3:1 "And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write: These 
things saith he that hath the seven spirits of God, and the seven 
stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, 
and art dead. 2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things that 
remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works 
perfect before God. 3 Remember therefore how thou hast 
received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou 
shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not 
know what hour I will come upon thee. 4 Thou hast a few names 
even in Sardis that have not defiled their garments ; and they shall 
walk with me in white: for they are worthy. 5 He that over- 
cometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not 
blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name 
before my Father, and before his angels. 6 He that hath an ear, 
let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." 



VI. THE CHURCH IN PHILADELPHIA 
The Pillar in the Temple of God 

7 "And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These 
things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of 
David, he that openeth and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and 
no man openeth ; 8 I know thy works : behold, I have set before 
thee an open door, and no man can shut it : for thou hast a little 
strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. 9 
Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, who say they 
are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come 
and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. 
10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep 
thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the 
world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11 Behold, I 
come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take 
thy crown. 12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the 
temple of my God, and he shall go no more out : and I will write 

Chapter 2:25-3:12 



654 The Greatest Book Ever Written 



upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my 
God, which is New Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven 
from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. 13 He 
that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the 
churches." 



VII. THE CHURCH IN LAODICEA 
The Seat on the Throne 

14 "And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write: 
These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the 
beginning of the creation of God; 15 I know thy works, that 
thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 
16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I 
would spue thee out of my mouth. 17 Because thou say est, 
'I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing;' 
and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, 
and blind, and naked: 18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried 
in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou 
may est be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not 
appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest 
see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous 
therefore, and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door, and 
knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come 
in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. 21 To him 
that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as 
I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. 
22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto 
the churches." 

Chapter 3:13-22 






pari <0n* 
The Heavenly Vision of John 



THE LAMB OF GOD AND THE BOOK 

I. THE VISION OF THE THRONE 

The Praise unto God 

After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven' 

and the first voice which I heard was as it were a trumpet talking 

with me; which said, "Come up hither, and I will show thee things 

which must be hereafter." 2 And immediately I was in the 

spirit : and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the 

throne. 3 And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a 

sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, 

in sight like unto an emerald. 4 And round about the throne 

were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and 

twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on 

their heads crowns of gold. 5 And out of the throne proceeded 

lightnings and thunderings and voices : and there were seven lamps 

of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of 

God. 6 And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto 

crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the 

throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind. 7 And 

the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and 

the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like 

a flying eagle. 8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings 

about him; and they were full of eyes within : and they rest not day 

and night, saying: 

* * * 

"Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, 
Who was, and is, and is to come." 
* 

9 And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to 
him that sat on the throne, who liveth forever and ever, 10 the 
four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the 
throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast 
their crowns before the throne, saying: 

* * * 

11 "Thou art worthy, O Lord, 

To receive glory and honour and power : 

655 Chapter 4:1-11 



656 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part I 

For thou hast created all things, 

And for thy pleasure they are and were created." 



II. THE VISION OF THE SEALED BOOK 
The Lion of the Tribe of Judah 

5 :1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne 

a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven 

seals. 2 And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, 

"Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?" 

3 And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, 

was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. 4 And I 

wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to 

read the book, neither to look thereon. 5 And one of the elders 

saith unto me : 

* * * 

"Weep not! 
Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, 
The Root of David, 
Hath prevailed to open the book, 
And to loose the seven seals thereof." 



HI. THE VISION OF THE LAMB OF GOD 
The New Song unto the Lamb 

6 And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the 

four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it 

had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the 

seven spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. 7 And he came 

and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the 

throne. 8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts 

and four and twenty elders fell down before the lamb, having 

every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odors, 1 which 

are the prayers of the saints. 9 And they sang a new song, 

saying : 

* * * 

"Thou art worthy to take the book, 
And to open the seals thereof : 
For thou wast slain, 

And hast redeemed us to God by thy blood, 
Out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, 
and nation ; 
10 And hast made us unto our God kings and 
priests : 
And we shall reign on the earth." 



1 Or, incense. 

Chapter 5:1-10 



5:11 The Revelation of John 657 

IV. THE VISION OF THE MULTITUDE 
The Seven-Fold Praise of Thousands of Thousands 

11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round 
about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number 
of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of 
thousands; 12 saying, with a loud voice; 

* * * 

"Worthy is the Lamb that was slain 

To receive power, and riches, and wisdom, 

And strength, and honour, and glory, and 

blessing." 

* 

13 And every creature that is in heaven, and on the earth, and 
under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in 

them, heard I, saying: 

* * * 

"Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, 
Be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, 
And unto the Lamb for ever and ever." 
* 

14 And the four beasts said, "Amen." And the four and twenty 
elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever. 

Chapter 5:11-14 



Part $too 

The Vision of the Powers of 
Judgment 



THE OPENING OF THE SEALED BOOK 

I. THE SEAL OF CONQUEST 

The Vision of the White Horse and Rider 

And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, 
as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts, saying, 
"Come and see." 2 And I saw, and behold a white horse: and 
he that sat on him had a bow ; and a crown was given unto him : 
and he went forth conquering and to conquer. 



II. THE SEAL OF WAR 
The Vision of a Red Horse and Rider 

3 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second 
beast say, "Come and see." 4 And there went out another 
horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon 
to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another : 
and there was given unto him a great sword. 



HI. THE SEAL OF FAMINE 
The Vision of a Black Horse and Rider 

5 And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third 
beast say, "Come and see." And I beheld, and lo, a black horse; 
and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. 6 And 
I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, "A measure of 
wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and 
see thou hurt not the oil and the wine." 



IV. THE SEAL OF DEATH 
The Vision of a Pale Horse and Rider 

7 And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice 
of the fourth beast say, "Come and see." 8 And I looked, and 

659 Chapter 6:1-8 



660 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 

beheld a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, 
and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them 
over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with 
hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth. 



V. THE SEAL OF JUDGMENT 
The Vision of Martyrdom for the Word and Testimony 

9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar 
the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the 
testimony which they held : 10 and they cried with a loud voice, 

saying : 

* * * 

"How long, O Lord, holy and true, 
Dost thou not judge and avenge our blood 
On them that dwell on the earth?" 
* 

11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it 
was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, 
until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should 
be killed as they were, should be fulfilled. 



VI. THE SEAL OF WRATH 
a. The Vision of the Judgment to Come 

12 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, 
there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sack- 
cloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13 and the stars 
of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely 
figs, when she is shaken by a mighty wind. 14 And the heaven 
departed as a scroll when it is rolled together ; and every mountain 
and island were moved out of their places. 15 And the kings 
of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief 
captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every 
free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the 
mountains; 16 and said to the mountains and rocks: 

"Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him 
That sitteth on the throne, 
And from the wrath of the Lamb : 
17 For the great day of his wrath is come; 
And who shall be able to stand?" 

Chapter 6:9-17 



7: 1 The Revelation of John 661 

b. The Great Number of the Redeemed 

7:1 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the 
four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that 
the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any 
tree. 2 And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having 
the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the 
four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, 

3 saying: "Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, 
till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads." 

4 And I heard the number of them that were sealed: and there 
were sealed a hundred and forty and four thousand of all the 
tribes of the children of Israel : 



5 Of the tribe of Judah were sealed twelve thousand. 
Of the tribe of Reuben were sealed twelve thousand. 
Of the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve thousand. 

6 Of the tribe of Asher were sealed twelve thousand. 
Of the tribe of Naphtali were sealed twelve 

thousand. 
Of the tribe of Menasseh were sealed twelve 
thousand. 

7 Of the tribe of Simeon were sealed twelve thousand. 
Of the tribe of Levi were sealed twelve thousand. 
Of the tribe of Issachar were sealed twelve 

thousand. 

8 Of the tribe of Zebulon were sealed twelve thousand. 
Of the tribe of Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. 
Of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed twelve 

thousand. 



c. The Vision of the Redeemed 

9 And after this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no 

man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and tongues, 

stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white 

robes, and palms in their hands ; 10 and cried with a loud voice, 

saying : 

* * * 

"Salvation to our God who sitteth upon 
the throne, 
And unto the Lamb." 
* 

11 And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about 
the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their 
faces, and worshipped God, 12 saying: 

Chapter 7:1-12 



662 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part II 



"Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, 
And thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and 

might, 
Be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen." 
* 

13 And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, "Who are 
these that are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?" 

14 And I said unto him, "Sir, thou knowest." And he said unto 



me: 



"These are they that came out of great 
tribulation, 
And have washed their robes, 
And made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 

15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, 
And serve him day and night in his temple : 
And he that sitteth on the throne shall 

dwell among them. 

16 They shall hunger no more, 
Neither thirst any more; 
Neither shall the sun light on them, 
Nor any heat. 

17 For the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne 
Shall feed them, 

And shall lead them unto living fountains 

of waters : 
And God shall wipe away all tears from 

their eyes." 



VH. THE SEAL OF SILENCE 
The Vision of the Golden Censer 

8:1 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence 
in heaven about the space of half an hour. 2 And I saw the seven 
angels that stood before God; and to them were given seven 
trumpets. 3 And another angel came and stood at the altar, 
having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much 
incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon 
the golden altar which was before the throne. 4 And the smoke 
of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended 
up before God out of the angel's hand. 5 And the angel took the 
censer, and filled it with fire of the altar, and cast it into the earth : 
and there were voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an 
earthquake. 

Chapter 7:13-8:5 



Part $iim 
The Vision of the Judgment of God 



THE VISION OF THE SEVEN TRUMPETS 

I. THE JUDGMENT ON THE EARTH 

The Vision of Hail and Fire 

And the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared 
themselves to sound. 7 The first angel sounded, and there 
followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon 
the earth : and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green 
grass was burnt up. 



H. THE JUDGMENT ON THE SEA 
The Vision of the Burning Mountain in the Sea 

8 And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain 
burning with fire was cast into the sea : and the third part of the 
sea became blood; 9 and the third part of the creatures that 
were in the sea, and had life, died; and the third part of the ships 
were destroyed. 



HI. THE JUDGMENT ON THE RIVERS AND FOUNTAINS 
The Vision of the Falling Star Wormwood 

10 And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star 
from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third 
part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; 11 and the 
name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the 
waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, 
because they were made bitter. 



IV. THE JUDGMENT ON THE SUN AND STARS 
The Vision of the Flying Angel 

12 And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun 
was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part 
of the stars ; so that the third part of them was darkened, and the 

663 Chapter 8:6-12 



664 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise. 13 And 
I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, 
saying with a loud voice, "Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabitants of 
the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpets of the 
three angels, that are yet to sound!" 



V. THE JUDGMENT FROM BENEATH 
The Vision of the Bottomless Pit 

9:1 And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from 
heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the 
bottomless pit. 2 And he opened the bottomless pit; and there 
arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and 
the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the 
pit. 3 And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: 
and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth 
have power. 4 And it was commanded them that they should 
not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither 
any tree; but only those men who have not the seal of God in 
their foreheads. 5 And to them it was given that they should 
not kill them, but that they should be tormented five months: 
and their torment was as the torment of a scorpion, when he 
striketh a man. 6 And in those days men shall seek death, and 
shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from 
them. 7 And the shapes of the locusts were like unto horses 
prepared unto battle; and on their heads were as it were crowns 
like gold, and their faces were as the faces of men. 8 And they 
had hair as the hair of women, and their teeth were as the teeth of 
lions. 9 And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of 
iron ; and the sound of their wings was as the sound of chariots of 
many horses running to battle. 10 And they had tails like unto 
scorpions, and there were stings in their tails: and their power was 
to hurt men five months. 11 And they had a king over them, 
who is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew 
tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name 
Apollyon. 1 12 One woe is past; and, behold, there come two 
woes more hereafter. 



VI. THE JUDGMENT FROM BABYLON 

a. The Vision of the Four Angels 

13 And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the 
four horns of the golden altar which is before God, 14 saying to 
the sixth angel that had the trumpet, "Loose the four angels that 

1 That is to say, a destroyer. 

Chapter 8:13-9:14 



9:15 The Revelation of John 665 

are bound in the great river Euphrates." 15 And the four angels 
were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a 
month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men. 16 And the 
number of the army of the horsemen was two hundred thousand 
thousand: and I heard the number of them. 17 And thus I saw 
the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having 
breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads 
of the horses were as the heads of lions ; and out of their mouths 
issued fire and smoke and brimstone. 18 By these three was the 
third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the 
brimstone, which issued out of their mouths. 19 For their power 
is in their mouth, and in their tails : for their tails were like unto 
serpents, and had heads, and with them they do hurt. 20 And 
the rest of the men that were not killed by these plagues yet 
repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not 
worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, 
and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk: 21 
neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor 
of their thefts. 



b. The Vision of the Little Book 

10:1 And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, 
clothed with a cloud: and a rainbow was upon his head, and his 
face was as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire : 2 and 
he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot 
upon the sea, and his left foot on the earth, 3 and cried with a 
loud voice, as when a lion roareth; and when he had cried, seven 
thunders uttered their voices. 4 And when the seven thunders 
had uttered their voices, I was about to write: and I heard a voice 
from heaven saying unto me, "Seal up those things that the seven 
thunders uttered, and write them not." 5 And the angel which 
I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to 
heaven, 6 and sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who 
created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, 
and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things that 
are therein, that there should be time no longer: 7 but in the 
days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to 
sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared 
to his servants the prophets. 



c. The Vision of the Prophet 

8 And the voice which I heard from heaven spake unto me again, 
and said, "Go and take the little book which is open in the hand 
of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth." 
9 And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, "Give me the 

665 Chapter 9:15-10:9 



666 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part III 

little book." And he said unto me, "Take it, and eat it up; and 
it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as 
honey." ^ 10 And I took the little book out of the angel's hand 
and ate it up; and it was in my mouth sweet as honey: and as 
soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter. 11 And he said unto 
me, "Thou must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, 
and tongues, and kings." 



d. The Vision of Judgment 

11:1 And there was given me a reed like unto a rod; and the 
angel stood, saying : 

* * * 

"Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the 
altar, and them that worship therein. 2 But the 
court that is without the temple leave out, and 
measure it not ; for it is given unto the Gentiles : and 
the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and 
two months. 3 And I will give power unto my two 
witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two 
hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. 
4 These are the two olive trees, and the two candle- 
sticks standing before the God of the earth. 5 And 
if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their 
mouth, and devoureth their enemies : and if any man 
will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed. 
6 These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in 
the days of their prophecy: and have power over 
waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth 
with all plagues, as often as they will. 7 And when 
they shall have finished their testimony, the beast 
that proceedeth out of the bottomless pit shall make 
war against them and shall overcome them, and 
kill them. 8 And their dead bodies shall lie in the 
street of the great city, which spiritually is called 
Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. 
9 And they of the people and kindreds and tongues 
and nations shall see their dead bodies three days 
and a half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be 
put in graves. 10 And they that dwell upon the 
earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and 
shall send gifts one to another; because these two 
prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth." 

* 

11 And after three days and a half the Spirit of life from God 
entered into them, and they stood upon their feet ; and great fear 

Chapter 10:10-11:11 



11:12 The Revelation of John 667 

fell upon them that saw them. 12 And they heard a great 
voice from heaven saying unto them, "Come up hither." And 
they ascended up to heaven in a cloud ; and their enemies beheld 
them. 13 And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and 
the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of 
men seven thousand : and the remnant were affrighted, and gave 
glory to the God of heaven. 14 The second woe is past, and 
behold the third woe cometh quickly. 



VH. THE KINGDOM OF OUR LORD 

The Vision of the Kingdom 

15 And the seventh angel sounded: and there were great voices 

in heaven, saying : 

* * * 

"The kingdoms of this world are become 
The kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; 
And he shall reign for ever and ever." 
* 

16 And the four and twenty elders who sat before God on their 
seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God, 17 saying: 

* * * 

"We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, 
Who art, and wast, and art to come; 
Because thou hast taken to thee thy great 

power, 
And hast reigned. 
18 And the nations were angry, 
And thy wrath is come, 
And the time of the dead, 
That they should be judged, 
And thou shouldest give reward unto 

thy servants the prophets, 
And to the saints, 

And them that fear thy name, small and great; 
And shouldest destroy them that destroy 

the earth." 

19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there 
was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were 
lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, 
and great hail. 

Chapter 11:12-19 



Part Four 

The Vision of the Kingdom of 
our Lord 



THE TRIUMPH OVER THE DRAGON 

I. THE VISION OF THE WOMAN AND THE DRAGON 
The Birth of the Ruler of All Nations 

And there appeared a great sign in heaven; a woman clothed 
with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a 
crown of twelve stars; 2 and she being with child, travailing 
in birth, and pained to be delivered. 3 And there appeared 
another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having 
seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. 
4 And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did 
cast them to the earth; and the dragon stood before the woman 
who was ready to be delivered, to devour her child as soon as it 
was born. 5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to 
rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up 
unto God, and to his throne. 6 And the woman fled into the 
wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they 
should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days. 



II. THE VICTORY OVER THE DRAGON 
The Great Power of the Lamb 

7 And there was war in heaven : Michael and his angels fought 
against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 8 and 
prevailed not, neither was there place found any more in heaven. 
9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the 
Devil, and Satan, who deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out 
into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. 10 And I 
heard a loud voice saying in heaven : 

* * * 

"Now is come salvation, and strength, 
And the kingdom of our God, 
And the power of his Christ : 
For the accuser of our brethren is cast down, 

669 Chapter 12:1-10 



670 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

Who accused them before our God day 
and night. 

11 And they overcame him by the power of 

the Lamb, 
And by the word of their testimony; 
And they loved not their lives unto the death. 

12 Therefore, rejoice, ye heavens, 
And ye that dwell in them. 

Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and 

of the sea! 
For the devil is come down unto you, 

having great wrath, 
Because he knoweth that he hath but 

a short time." 



in. THE PERSECUTION OF THE DRAGON 
The Wrath Against the Woman 

13 And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, 
he persecuted the woman who brought forth the man child. 
14 And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, 
that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place where she 
is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the 
face of the serpent. 15 And the serpent cast out of his mouth 
water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be 
carried away of the flood. 16 And the earth helped the woman, 
and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which 
the dragon cast out of his mouth. 17 And the dragon was wroth 
with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her 
seed, who keep the commandments of God, and have the testi- 
mony of Jesus Christ. 



IV. THE DRAGON AND THE BEAST 
The Authority abd Power of the Beast over the World 

13 :1 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise 
up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon 
his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. 

2 And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his 
feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion : 
and the dragon gave him power, and his seat, and great authority. 

3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death ; and his 
deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the 
beast. 4 And they worshipped the dragon that gave power 
unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, "Who is 
like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?" 5 And 

Chapter 12:11-13:5 



13:6 The Revelation of John 671 

there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and 
blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty 
and two months. 6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy 
against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them 
that dwell in heaven. 7 And it was given unto him to make war 
with the saints, and to overcome them : and power was given him 
over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. 8 And all that 
dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not 
written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation 
of the world. 9 If any man hath an ear, let him hear. 10 He 
that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth 
with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience 
and the faith of the saints. 



V. THE PROPHET OF THE BEAST 
The Curse upon Men 

1 1 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth ; and 
he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke as a dragon. 12 And 
he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and 
causeth the earth and them that dwell therein to worship the first 
beast, whose deadly wound was healed. 13 And he doeth great 
wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the 
earth in the sight of men, 14 and deceiveth them that dwell on 
the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to 
do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the 
earth, that they should make an image to the beast, who had the 
wound by a sword, and did live. 15 And he had power to give 
life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should 
both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the 
image of the beast should be killed. 16 And he causeth all, both 
small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in 
their right hand, or in their foreheads. 17 And that no man 
might buy or sell, save he that hath the mark, or the name of the 
beast or the number of his name. 18 Here is wisdom. Let him 
that hath understanding count the number of the beast : for it is 
the number of a man; and his number is six hundred three score 
and six. 



VI. THE TRIUMPH OF THE LAMB 
The Many Thousands 

14:1 And I looked, and lo, a Lamb stood on mount Zion, and 
with him a hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father's 
name written in their foreheads. 2 And I heard a voice from 
heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great 

Chapter 13:6-14:2 



672 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part IV 

thunder; and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their 
harps : 3 and they sang as it were a new song before the throne, 
and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn 
that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, that were 
redeemed from the earth. 4 These are they that were not denied 
with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow 
the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed 1 from 
among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. 
5 And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without 
fault before the throne of God. 6 And I saw another angel fly 
in the midst of heaven having the everlasting gospel to preach 
unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and 
kindred, and tongue, and people, 7 saying with a loud voice: 

* * * 

"Fear God, and give glory to him; 
For the hour of his judgment is come : 
And worship him that made heaven, and earth 

and the sea, 
And the fountains of waters." 



8 And there followed another angel, saying: 

* * * 

"Babylon is fallen, is fallen, 
That great city, 

Because she made all nations drink 
Of the wine of the wrath of her fornication." 
* 

9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice : 

* * * 

"If any man worship the beast and his image, and 
receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, 10 
the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, 
which is poured out without mixture into the cup 
of his indignation ; and he shall be tormented with fire 
and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and 
in the presence of the Lamb : 1 1 and the smoke of 
their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and 
they have no rest day nor night, who worship the 
beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the 
mark of his name. 12 Here is the patience of the 
saints : here are they that keep the commandments of 
God, and the faith of Jesus." 



1 Were bought. 

Chapter 14:3-12 



14:13 The Revelation of John 673 

13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me: "Write, 

* * * 

Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord 

from henceforth : 
Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest 

from their labors ; 
And their works do follow them." 



VII. THE JUDGMENT OF THE LAMB 
The Song of Moses and the Lamb 

14 And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud 
one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden 
crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. 15 And another angel 
came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat 
on the cloud, "Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the harvest of 
the earth is ripe." 16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his 
sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped. 17 And another 
angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a 
sharp sickle. 18 And another angel came out from the altar, who 
had power over fire ; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the 
sharp sickle, saying, "Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the 
clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe." 
19 And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered 
the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the 
wrath of God. 20 And the winepress was trodden without the 
city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horses 
bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs. 
15:1 And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, 
seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled 
up the wrath of God. 2 And I saw as it were a sea of glass 
mingled with fire : and them that had gotten the victory over the 
beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number 
of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. 
3 And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the 
song of the Lamb, saying: 

% :H >K 

"Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God 
Almighty ; 
Just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. 1 
4 Who shall fear thee, O Lord, 
And glorify thy name? 
For thou only art holy : 
For all nations shall come and worship 
before thee; 
For thy judgments are made manifest." 

1 Or, nations; or, ages. 

Chapter 14:13-15:4 



Port Fiiw 
The Vision of the Wrath of God 



PROLOGUE 

THE VISION OF THE VIALS 
The Seven Angels with the Vials of Wrath 

And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle 

of the testimony in heaven was opened : 6 and the seven angels 

came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure 

and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden 

girdles. 7 And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels 

seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and 

ever. 8 And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of 

God, and from his power; and no man was able to enter into the 

temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled. 

16:1 And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the 

seven angels : 

* * * 

"Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the 
wrath of God upon the earth." 



I. THE VISION OF THE FIRST VIAL 
The Curse upon Men 

2 And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; 
and there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men who had 
the mark of the beast, and upon them that worship his image. 



II. THE VISION OF THE SECOND VIAL 
The Curse Upon the Sea 

3 And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and 
it became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died 
in the sea. 



III. THE VISION OF THE THIRD VIAL 
The Curse upon the Waters 

4 And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and 
fountains of waters; and they became blood. 5 And I heard the 
angel of the waters say : 

675 Chapter 15:5-16:5 



676 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

"Thou art righteous, O Lord, 
Who art, and wast, and shall be, 
Because thou hast judged thus. 
6 For they have shed the blood of the saints and 
prophets, 
And thou hast given them blood to drink ; 
For they are worthy." 
* 
7 And I heard another out of the altar say: 

* * * 

"Even so, Lord God Almighty, 
True and righteous are thy judgments." 



IV. THE VISION OF THE FOURTH VIAL 

The Curse upon the Sun 

8 And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and 
power was given unto him to scorch men with fire. 9 And men 
were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God, 
who hath power over these plagues : and they repented not to give 
him glory. 



V. THE POURING OF THE FIFTH VIAL 
The Curse upon the Throne 

10 And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the 
beast ; and his kingdom was full of darkness ; and they gnawed their 
tongues for pain, 11 and blasphemed the God of heaven because 
of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds. 



VI. THE POURING OF THE SIXTH VIAL 
The Curse upon the Euphrates 

12 And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river 
Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of 
the kings of the east might be prepared. 13 And I saw three 
unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, 
and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the 
false prophet. 14 For they are the spirits of devils, working 
miracles, that go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole 
world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God 
Almighty. 

15 "Behold, I come as a thief. 

Chapter 16:6-15 



16:16 The Revelation of John 677 

Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth 

his garments, 
Lest he walk naked, and they see his shame." 
* 

16 And he gathered them together into a place called in the 
Hebrew tongue, Armageddon. 



VII. THE POURING OF THE SEVENTH VIAL 
The Curse upon the Air 

17 And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and 
there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the 
throne, saying, "It is done." 18 And there were voices, and 
thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such 
as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, 
and so great. 19 And the great city was divided into three parts, 
and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in 
remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of 
the fierceness of his wrath. 20 And every island fled away, and 
the mountains were not found. 21 And there fell upon men a 
great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent : 
and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for 
the plague thereof was exceeding great. 



EPILOGUE 

THE FALL OF BABYLON THE GREAT 

The Vision of the Judgment 

i. 

17 :1 And there came one of the seven angels that had the seven 

vials, and talked with me, saying unto me: "Come hither: I will 

show unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth 

upon many waters : 

* * * 

2 The kings of the earth 

Have committed fornication with her, 
And the inhabitants of the earth 
Have been made drunk with the wine of her 
fornication." 

3 And he carried me away in the Spirit into the wilderness : and 
I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of 
blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. 4 And the woman 
was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold 

Chapter 16:16-17:4 



678 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand 
full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication : 5 and upon 
her forehead was a name written : 

♦ * * 

MYSTERY 
* 

BABYLON THE GREAT 
* 

THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS 
* 

AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH 
* 

6 And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, 
and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus : and when I saw her I 
wondered with great admiration. 

ii. 

7 And the angel said unto me, "Wherefore didst 
thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the 
woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, that hath 
the seven heads and ten horns. 

* * * 

8 "The beast that thou sawest was, and is not ; and 
shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into 
perdition : 

"And they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, 
whose names were not written in the book of life 
from the foundation of the world, when they behold 
the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. 

* 

9 "And here is the mind that hath wisdom: The 
seven heads are seven mountains, on which the 
woman sitteth. 

10 "And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and 
one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he 
cometh, he must continue a short space. 

1 1 ' 'And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the 
eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition. 

* 

12 "And the ten horns that thou sawest are ten 
kings, that have received no kingdom as yet; but 
receive power as kings one hour with the beast. 

Chapter 17:5-12 



17:13 The Revelation of John 679 

13 These have one mind, and shall give their power 
and strength unto the beast. 

* 

14 "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the 
Lamb shall overcome them : for he is Lord of lords, 
and King of kings : and they that are with him are 
called, and chosen, and faithful." 

* 

15 And he saith unto me: "The waters that thou sawest, 
where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, 
and tongues. 16 And the ten horns that thou sawest upon the 
beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and 
naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire. 17 For 
God hath put in their hearts to fulfill his will, and to agree, and 
give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be 
fulfilled. 18 And the woman that thou sawest is that great city, 
that reigneth over the kings of the earth." 

iii. 

18:1 And after these things I saw another angel come down 
from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lighted with 
his glory. 2 And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying: 

* * * 

"Babylon the Great is fallen, is fallen, 
And is become the habitation of devils, 
And the hold of every foul spirit, 
And a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. 
3 For all nations have drunk of the wine of the 
wrath of her fornication, 
And the kings of the earth, 
Have committed fornication with her, 
And the merchants of the earth are waxed rich 
Through the abundance of her delicacies." 

iv. 

4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying: "Come out 
of her, my people, that you be not partakers of her sins, and that 
you receive not of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached 
unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. 6 Reward 
her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according 
to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double. 
7 How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so 
much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, 
'I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow.' 8 
Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, 
and famine: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her." 

Chapter 17:13-18:8 



680 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 



9 And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication 
and lived deliciously with her, shall bewail her, and lament for 
her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning, 10 standing 
afar off for the fear of her torment, saying: 

* * * 

"Alas! Alas! That great city Babylon, 
That mighty city, 

For in one hour is thy judgment come." 
* 

11 And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn 
over her ; for no man buyeth their merchandise any more : 

* * * 

12 The merchandise of gold, and silver, and 

precious stones, and of pearls, 
And fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, 
And all thyne wood, and all manner of vessels 

of ivory, 
And all manner of vessels of most precious wood, 
And of brass, and iron, and marble, 

13 And cinnamon, and odors, and ointments, and 

frankincense, 
And wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, 
And beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, 
And slaves and souls of men. 

14 And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from 
thee, and all things that were dainty and goodly are departed 
from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all. 15 And the 
merchants of these things, who were made rich by her, shall stand 
afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing, 16 and 

saying : 

* * * 

"Alas! Alas! That great city. 
That was clothed in fine linen, and purple 

and scarlet, 
And decked with gold, and precious stones, 
and pearls! 
17 For in one hour so great riches have come 
to naught! 

* 

And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, 
and as many as trade by sea, stood afar off, 18 and cried when 
they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, "What city is like 

Chapter 18:9-18 



18:19 The Greatest Book Ever Written 681 

unto this great city!" 19 And they cast dust on their heads, 
and cried, weeping and wailing, saying: 

"Alas! Alas! That great city, 
Wherein were made rich all that had ships 

in the sea 
By reason of her costliness! 
For in one hour is she made desolate! 
20 Rejoice over her, thou heaven, 
And ye holy apostles and prophets, 
For God hath avenged you on her!" 



21 And a mighty angel took up a stone, like a great millstone, 
and cast it into the sea, saying : 

sfc H* * 

"Thus with violence shall that great city Baby- 
lon be thrown down, 
And shall be found no more at all. 

22 And the voice of harpers, and musicians, .and 

pipers, and trumpeters, 
Shall be heard no more at all in thee ; 
And no craftsman, of whatsoever craft he be, 
Shall be found any more in thee ; 
And the sound of a millstone, 
Shall be heard no more at all in thee ; 

23 And the light of a candle, 

Shall shine no more at all in thee ; 

And the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride 

Shall be heard no more at all in thee : 

For thy merchants were the great men of the 

earth; 
For by thy sorceries were all nations deceived. 

24 And in her was found the blood of prophets, 

and of saints, 
And of all that were slain upon the earth." 



19 :1 And after these things I heard a great voice of many people 
in heaven, saying : 

"Hallelujah! 
Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, 
Unto the Lord our God. 
2 For true and righteous are his judgments : 
For he hath judged the great whore, 

Chapter 18:19-19:2 



682 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part V 

That did corrupt the earth with her fornication, 
And hath avenged the blood of his servants at 
her hand." 

3 And again they said: "Hallelujah!" 

And her smoke rose up for ever and ever. 4 And the four and 
twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God 
that sat on the throne, saying: 

* * * 
"Amen! Hallelujah!" 

Chapter 19:3-4 



Part Six 
The Vision of the Word of God 



THE LORD OUR GOD, THE ALMIGHTY, REIGNETH 

THE VISION OF THE VICTORY OF THE LAMB 

The Marriage of the Lamb 

And a voice came out of the throne, saying : 

* * * 

"Praise our God, all ye his servants, 
And ye that fear him, both small and great." 
* 

6 And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as 

the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, 

saying : 

* * * 

"Hallelujah! 
For the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. 

7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to 

him: 
For the marriage of the Lamb is come, 
And his wife hath made herself ready. 

8 And to her was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, 

clean and white : 
For the fine linen is the righteousness of saints." 
* 

9 And he saith unto me, "Write, Blessed are they that are 
called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb." And he saith 
unto me, "These are the true sayings of God." 10 And I fell 
at his feet to worship him. And he saith unto me, "See thou do it 
not: I am thy fellow-servant, and of thy brethren that have the 
testimony of Jesus: Worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is 
is the spirit of prophecy." 



I. THE RAIMENT OF THE WORD OF GOD 

The Vesture Dipped in Blood 

11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and 
he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteous- 
ness he doth judge and make war. 12 And his eyes were as a 

683 Chapter 19:5-12 



684 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a 

name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 13 And he 

was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name was 

called 'The Word of God.' 14 And the armies that were in heaven 

followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and 

clean. 15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with 

it he should smite the nations, and he shall rule them with a rod 

of iron : and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath 

of Almighty God. 16 And he hath on his vesture and on his 

thigh a name written : 

* * * 

"KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS." 



II. THE CALL OF THE ANGEL TO THE BIRDS 
The Supper of the Great God 

17 And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with 
a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, 
"Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the 
great God: 18 that ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of 
captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, 
and of them that sit on them, and the flesh of all men, both free 
and bond, both small and great." 



III. THE CAPTURE OF THE BEAST 
The Lake Burning Brimstone 

19 And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their 
armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on 
the horse, and against his army. 20 And the beast was taken, 
and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, 
with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the 
beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were 
cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. 21 And the 
remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the 
horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls 
were filled with their flesh. 



IV. THE BINDING OF SATAN 
The Thousand Years in the Bottomless Pit 

20:1 And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the 
key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. 2 And 
he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, 

Chapter 19:13-20:2 



20:3 The Revelation of John 685 

and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, 3 and cast him 
into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, 
that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years 
should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season. 



V. THE FIRST RESURRECTION 
The Reign with Christ 

4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment 
was given unto them; and I saw the souls of them that were 
beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and 
that had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had 
received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands: and they 
lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. 5 But the rest 
of the dead lived not until the thousand years were finished. 
This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy is he that hath 
part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no 
power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall 
reign with him a thousand years. 



VI. THE WAR OF THE NATIONS 
The Lake of Fire and Brimstone 

7 And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be 
loosed out of his prison, 8 and shall go out to deceive the nations 
that are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to 
gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the 
sand of the sea. 9 And they went up on the breadth of the 
earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved 
city : and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured 
them. 10 And the Devil that deceived them was cast into the 
lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet 
are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. 



VII. THE LAST JUDGMENT 
The Second Death 

11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, 
from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there 
was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and 
great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another 
book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were 
judged out of those things that were written in the books, according 

Chapter 20:3-12 



686 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VI 

to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead that were in it; 
and death and hell delivered up the dead that were in them: and 
they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And 
death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second 
death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of 
life was cast into the lake of fire. 

Chapter 20:13-15 



Part gfijfn 
The Vision of the Holy City 



THE NEW HEAVEN AND EARTH 

I. THE NEW CREATION 

The Dwelling of God with His People 

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth : for the first heaven 
and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. 
2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down 
from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her 
husband. 3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying: 

"Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, 
And he shall dwell with them, 
And they shall be his people, 
And God himself shall be with them, 
And be their God. 
4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their 
eyes ; 
And there shall be no more death, 
Neither sorrow nor crying, 
Neither shall there be any more pain, 
For the former things are passed away." 



5 And he that sat upon the throne said, "Behold, I make all 
things new," And he said unto me, "Write, for these words are 
true and faithful." 6 And he said unto me: 



'It is done. 

I am Alpha and Omega, 
The Beginning and the End. 
I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain 

of the water of life freely. 
He that overcometh shall inherit all things ; 
And I will be his God, 
And he shall be mv son. 



687 Chapter 21:1-7 



688 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and 
murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and 
all liars, shall have their part in the lake that burnetii with fire 
and brimstone: which is the second death." 



II. THE VISION OF THE NEW JERUSALEM 
a. The Bride, the Lamb's Wife 

9 And there came one of the seven angels that had the seven 
vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, 
"Come hithsr, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife." 
10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high 
mountain, and showed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, 
descending out of heaven from God, 11 having the glory of 
God: and her light was like a stone most precious, even like a 
jasper stone, clear as crystal; 12 and had a wall great and high, 
and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names 
written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the 
children of Israel: 13 on the east three gates; on the north three 
gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. 14 
And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the 
names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. 



b. The Measure of the City 

15 And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure 
the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof. 16 And the 
city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: 
and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. 
The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. 17 
And he measured the wall thereof, a hundred and forty and four 
cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel. 



c. The Walls of the City 

18 And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city 

was pure gold, like unto clear glass. 19 And the foundations of 

the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious 

stones : 

* * * 

The first foundation was jasper; 
The second, sapphire ; 
The third, a chalcedony; 
The fourth, an emerald; 

Chapter 21:8-19 



21:20 The Revelation of John 689 

20 The fifth, sardonyx; 
The sixth, sardius; 
The seventh, chrysolyte ; 
The eighth, beryl; 
The ninth, a topaz; 
The tenth, a chrysoprasus ; 
The eleventh, a jacinth; 
The twelfth, an amethyst. 
* 

21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: and the street of 
the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass. 



d. The Temple in the City 

22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty 
and the Lamb are the temple of it. 

* 

23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, 
to shine in it ; for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is 
the light thereof. 

24 And the nations of them that are saved shall walk in the 

light of it. 

* 

And the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into 

it. 

* 

25 And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day : for there 

shall be no night there. 

* 

26 And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations 
into it. 

27 And there shall in no wise enter it any thing that defileth, 
neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but 
they that are written in the Lamb's book of life. 



e. The River of the Water of Life 

22:1 And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as 
crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. 

* 

2 In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, 
was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and 

Chapter 21:20-22:2 



690 The Greatest Book Ever Written Part VII 

yieldeth her fruit every month : and the leaves of the tree were for 

the healing of the nations. 

* 

3 And there shall be no more curse : but the throne of God and 
of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him; 

4 And they shall see his face; 

- 

And his name shall be in their foreheads. 

* 

5 And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, 
neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light. 

* 

And they shall reign for ever and ever. 

Chapter 22:3-5 



The Coming of the Lord Jesus 



THE CONCLUSION OF THE REVELATION 
THE LAST WORDS OF THE VISION 
a. The Seven-Fold Summary 

* 

And he said unto me, "These sayings are faithful and true: and 
the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to show unto his 
servants the things which must shortly be done." 

* * 

7 * 'Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the 
sayings of the prophecy of this book." 8 And I John saw these 
things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell 
down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me 
these things. 9 Then saith he unto me, "See thou do it not: for 
I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of 
them that keep the sayings of this book: worship God." 

* * * 

10 And he saith unto me, "Seal not the sayings of the prophecy 
of this book : for the time is at hand. 

* 

11 He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: 
And he that is filthy, let him be filthy still : 
And he that is righteous, let him be righteous 

still: 
And he that is holy, let him be holy still. 
* 

12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to 
give every man according as his work shall be." 

13 "I am Alpha and Omega, 

The beginning and the end, 
The first and the last." 

14 "Blessed are they that do his commandments, 

That they may have right to the tree of life, 

691 Chapter 22:6-14 



692 The Greatest Book Ever Written 

And may enter in through the gates into the 

city. 

* 

15 For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and 

murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a 

He." 

** ** ** 

16 "I Jesus have sent my angel 

To testify unto you these things in the churches. 
I am the root and the offspring of David, 
And the bright and morning star." 

17 And the Spirit and the Bride say, "Come." 
And let him that heareth say, "Come." 
And let him. that is athirst, Come. 

And whosoever will, let him take of the water 
of life freely. 

b. Postscript 

18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the 

prophecy of this book. If any man shall add unto these things, 

God shall add unto him the things that are written in this book: 

19 and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of 

this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, 

and out of the holy city, and from the things that are written in 

this book. 

* 

20 He that testifieth these things saith : 

* * * 

"Surely, I come quickly." 

* 
"Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus." 
c. Benediction 

21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 

* * 
* 



Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process. 
Neutralizing agent: Magnesium Oxide 
Treatment Date: June 2005 

PreservationTechnologies 

A WORLD LEADER IN PAPER PRESERVATION 

1 1 1 Thomson Park Drive 
Cranberry Township. PA 16066 
(724)779-2111 



!! 



if 

huh I 

I lllI Hlii 

1 " 

111 



Hil 



if 



•MP 



-I in 



J|j[ill 



Hi 



Hi! 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




014 396 077 8 A 



